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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility indicated that its proprietor 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 difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial capital investment,” the director noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would rethink the course of action to put them down.

The director noted that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request consideration and decency as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the choice to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.