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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment explained that its owner 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 tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a recent update, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director stated.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or compassionate choice” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from the community, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The director stated that among the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we ask for compassion and respect as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to euthanise the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park frequently experienced economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to close until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.