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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the operator noted.

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

“We recently farewelled 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 director said.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The director stated that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and insulting remarks.

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

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the choice to humanely kill the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be performed humanely, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done properly,” the official said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.