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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online post, the facility indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the manager added.

In a later announcement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator stated.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would rethink the course of action to put them down.

The operator noted that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the decision to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be carried out humanely, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the park to close until the enclosures were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.