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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online post, the establishment explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable financial backing,” the operator explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical alternative” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the park would review the plan to put them down.

The operator noted that amid the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request consideration and decency as we manage this devastating situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to put down the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary frequently encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to shut down until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.