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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media post, the establishment indicated 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 “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are devastated,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant capital investment,” the operator explained.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the director stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or humane option” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from members of the public, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the park would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The director stated that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request kindness and decency as we handle this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the determination to euthanise the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to confirm this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility often encountered financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.