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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media post, the facility clarified 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 put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are devastated,” commented the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial capital investment,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent update, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would review the plan to end their lives.

The manager stated that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and decency as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the choice to euthanise the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director commented that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The park gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

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

The facility frequently encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.