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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media post, the facility indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are heartbroken,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent 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 grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the manager stated.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The director mentioned that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to threatening and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to put down the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and containment requirements.”

The facility gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility often experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.