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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 fate of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media update, the establishment indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the operator noted.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The director noted that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we manage this tragic situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The government department stated that the choice to put down the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be conducted humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The park gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park frequently encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.