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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are devastated,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial financial backing,” the director added.

In a later announcement, the park announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. While the deadline is short and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would review the decision to put them down.

The operator noted that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to put down the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility frequently experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.