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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are devastated,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial capital investment,” the operator noted.

In a recent update, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with responses from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The operator noted that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and insulting messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request compassion and respect as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the determination to put down the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to meet its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently encountered economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to shut down until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.