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

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

In a social media update, the establishment explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the operator noted.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate option” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

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

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we handle this tragic situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to euthanise the cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility often ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners multiple times. 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.