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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online announcement, the establishment explained that its owner had put the property 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 landowner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial capital investment,” the director noted.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator stated.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The director stated that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department indicated that the determination to euthanise the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility often experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to close until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.