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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online post, the facility explained that its proprietor had put the property 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 landowner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but significant monetary input,” the operator explained.

In a recent update, the park announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The manager noted that alongside the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered threatening and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and respect as we manage this devastating situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the decision to humanely kill the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director commented that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its animal care and security obligations.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently encountered financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the facility to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.