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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to put down two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media update, the facility clarified 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 euthanised “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are devastated,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but significant monetary input,” the director noted.

In a recent update, the facility verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director stated.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

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

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The operator noted that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to shut down until the habitats were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.