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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media announcement, the facility 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 euthanised “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the director noted.

In a subsequent statement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The manager stated that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment obligations.”

The facility attained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently encountered economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.