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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media post, the facility clarified that its owner 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 “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are devastated,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable capital investment,” the manager noted.

In a recent announcement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the manager remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or humane option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would rethink the course of action to put them down.

The operator mentioned that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request kindness and courtesy as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to put down the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to shut down until the habitats were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.