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

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

In a social media update, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable capital investment,” the manager explained.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator stated.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from the community, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the park would review the course of action to euthanise them.

The director noted that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we handle this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and enclosure obligations.”

The park attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park often encountered economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.