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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility clarified that its proprietor 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 challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are heartbroken,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable capital investment,” the manager noted.

In a subsequent statement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from the community, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would review the decision to end their lives.

The director noted that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to put down the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be conducted humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.