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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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 proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial financial backing,” the director added.

In a recent update, the sanctuary announced 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 not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the director stated.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from the community, begging for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator noted that among the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and decency as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to humanely kill the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be conducted humanely, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The park attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park often experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to cease operations until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.