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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media post, the establishment indicated 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 difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but significant monetary input,” the manager explained.

In a recent statement, 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 serious health conditions that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director stated.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would review the decision to end their lives.

The operator stated that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and respect as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department indicated that the decision to euthanise the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

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

The sanctuary achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary repeatedly ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to close until the habitats were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.