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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are heartbroken,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial capital investment,” the director explained.

In a subsequent update, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from the community, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The manager noted that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to put down the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A senior official commented that humane killing had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

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

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly encountered economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to close until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.