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

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

In a online post, the facility indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are devastated,” stated the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable monetary input,” the director noted.

In a recent statement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. While the deadline is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would review the decision to euthanise them.

The director noted that among the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to humanely kill the lions was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be on location to ensure this is done properly,” the official stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The park gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently ran into economic issues and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.