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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a online update, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the manager noted.

In a later update, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The director stated that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and insulting comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

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

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary frequently encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to shut down until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.