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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant capital investment,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent statement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the director remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with comments from the community, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would rethink the course of action to end their lives.

The operator mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

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

The park repeatedly encountered economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to shut down until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.