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

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable capital investment,” the operator added.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director stated.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for compassion and decency as we handle this devastating situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to euthanise the lions lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park frequently experienced economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to close until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.