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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to euthanise two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online update, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had listed the land 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 property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are devastated,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable capital investment,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent update, the facility announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“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 utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the director remarked.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The director stated that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the decision to euthanise the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility often ran into economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.