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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

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

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are devastated,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the director explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator said.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The director mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and decency as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to put down the lions was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be conducted humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

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

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to close until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.