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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility clarified that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” commented the facility’s manager.

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial capital investment,” the director explained.

In a recent statement, 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 untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The operator noted that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the decision to put down the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.