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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online post, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the operator explained.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the director stated.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The manager stated that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and respect as we handle this devastating circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to humanely kill the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The park gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

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

The facility often encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.