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

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online update, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant capital investment,” the director noted.

In a subsequent statement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the window is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or ethical choice” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The operator mentioned that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The landowner declined to comment.

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

A deputy director commented that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment obligations.”

The park gained 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 faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to close until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.