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

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media post, the facility explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 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 devastated,” stated the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable capital investment,” the manager added.

In a later statement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

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

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the park would rethink the plan to put them down.

The operator mentioned that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the choice to humanely kill the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park often experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.