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

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

In a social media update, the establishment 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 landowner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but significant monetary input,” the manager explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the manager stated.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would review the decision to end their lives.

The manager noted that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the decision to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be conducted humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park frequently encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to cease operations until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.