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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media update, the facility clarified that its proprietor 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 “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial financial backing,” the operator explained.

In a recent statement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to explore this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The director mentioned that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we ask for compassion and decency as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure obligations.”

The facility achieved a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.