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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 outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town 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 tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but significant capital investment,” the director explained.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane choice” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the park would review the decision to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and insulting comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and decency as we handle this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to put down the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the official stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to meet its animal welfare and security obligations.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park often ran into monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to close until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.