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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a online update, the establishment indicated 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 put down “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are heartbroken,” commented the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the operator added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye 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 consideration,” the director said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and respect as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to humanely kill the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the official stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to shut down until the facilities were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.