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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to put down two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online post, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had put the property 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 property owner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but significant monetary input,” the manager added.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would review the decision to end their lives.

The manager noted that amid the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request compassion and respect as we handle this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department indicated that the determination to euthanise the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that humane killing had to be conducted humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.