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

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

In a online post, the establishment explained 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 euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable capital investment,” the manager noted.

In a later statement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

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

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The operator stated that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the decision to put down the lions lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official stated that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary often ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to close until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.