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A struggling 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 uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

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

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but significant monetary input,” the operator added.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These actions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from the community, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed desire that the sanctuary would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager noted that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received threatening and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we request compassion and courtesy as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to humanely kill the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The park gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the park to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.