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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 outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online post, the establishment explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are heartbroken,” said the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial monetary input,” the director explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator said.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we manage this devastating situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

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

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security requirements.”

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

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility repeatedly experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to close until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.