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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to put down two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media update, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are devastated,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but significant monetary input,” the operator explained.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from the community, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would review the decision to end their lives.

The operator noted that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request compassion and courtesy as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the decision to euthanise the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The park attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to close until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.