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

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

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

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant monetary input,” the director noted.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator stated.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this possibility and hold onto hope.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would review the decision to put them down.

The manager mentioned that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and abusive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and decency as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to put down the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and security requirements.”

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

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency instructed the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.