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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

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

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial capital investment,” the director noted.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the director stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical choice” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the park would review the decision to end their lives.

The director noted that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request compassion and decency as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the decision to put down the lions was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment obligations.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park frequently experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to close until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.