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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, 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 establishment indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are heartbroken,” said the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but significant financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a later statement, the park verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in acquiring the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or humane alternative” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from the community, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the course of action to put them down.

The operator noted that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and abusive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and respect as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the decision to euthanise the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are confident that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment obligations.”

The sanctuary gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently experienced economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the facility to shut down until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.