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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to put down two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment indicated 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 euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” said the facility’s manager.

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the director explained.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, begging for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show 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 performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the facility to close until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.