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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to put down two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are devastated,” commented the facility’s manager.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the manager explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the decision to euthanise the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security requirements.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly ran into economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.