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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online announcement, the facility explained 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 tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are devastated,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a later update, the park verified 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 untreatable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the director said.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have shown interest in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the sanctuary would review the plan to put them down.

The director noted that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and respect as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the choice to euthanise the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be conducted humanely, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.