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

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online post, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable capital investment,” the operator explained.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions 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 put down.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request compassion and respect as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The park gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

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

The facility repeatedly experienced economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.