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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment clarified 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 put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant capital investment,” the director added.

In a recent statement, the sanctuary 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 worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or compassionate choice” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with responses from the community, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The manager stated that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to humanely kill the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The park attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

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

The sanctuary repeatedly encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.