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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to put down two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a online post, the facility explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are heartbroken,” commented the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the operator explained.

In a recent announcement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the director stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The manager noted that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for compassion and respect as we manage this devastating situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the determination to euthanise the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

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

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.