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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment clarified that its owner 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 “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant monetary input,” the director noted.

In a recent 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 not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The operator noted that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and decency as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The government department stated that the choice to put down the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official stated that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

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

The sanctuary often encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.