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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online update, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial capital investment,” the operator explained.

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

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

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would rethink the decision to put them down.

The director noted that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request kindness and decency as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the determination to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done properly,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to meet its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The park achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.