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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to put down two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility explained that its owner 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 tough decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable monetary input,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent announcement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager stated.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The operator stated that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to euthanise the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the official stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure obligations.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

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

The park often encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to close until the habitats were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.