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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media update, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial financial backing,” the manager added.

In a subsequent statement, the park announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility 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 facility’s posts were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The manager stated that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and insulting messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and courtesy as we handle this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the choice to euthanise the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and security obligations.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary often experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the establishment to shut down until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.