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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to put down two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment explained that its proprietor had put the property 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 landowner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the director added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the manager said.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with responses from the community, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the park would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The manager noted that alongside the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and insulting comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we handle this tragic situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to humanely kill the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary often ran into monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.