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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online post, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable monetary input,” the director added.

In a later statement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director stated.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is tight and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and keep hope alive.”

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

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from the community, pleading for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The operator mentioned that amid the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered hostile and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request kindness and decency as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the determination to put down the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official explained that humane killing had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and security requirements.”

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

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility often experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the facility to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.