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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online update, the facility explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are devastated,” stated the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the director explained.

In a later update, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or humane alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the park would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that among the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and decency as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the determination to euthanise the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often ran into economic issues and staffing problems, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.