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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

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

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

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the manager added.

In a subsequent update, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the director stated.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would review the decision to end their lives.

The manager stated that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and decency as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the determination to humanely kill the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.