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A struggling 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 undecided, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online update, the facility 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 put down “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial capital investment,” the operator added.

In a later statement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the manager said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical alternative” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that amid the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we manage this tragic situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the decision to humanely kill the cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and containment requirements.”

The park gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park frequently encountered economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to shut down until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.