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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment indicated 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 property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are devastated,” commented the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable monetary input,” the manager noted.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. While the deadline is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or humane alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would review the course of action to put them down.

The director mentioned that amid the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request compassion and respect as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to humanely kill the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility often ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to close until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.