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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to put down two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media update, the establishment indicated 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 put down “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the director added.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the director said.

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 shown interest in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the park would rethink the plan to put them down.

The operator stated that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and courtesy as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure obligations.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

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

The park frequently experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to close until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.