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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

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

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial financial backing,” the director added.

In a subsequent announcement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate choice” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The manager noted that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and decency as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the determination to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility often ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.