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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to put down two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

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

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are heartbroken,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but significant capital investment,” the manager explained.

In a recent announcement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. Although the window is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

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

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The director stated that alongside the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request consideration and respect as we handle this devastating situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to euthanise the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The park achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently encountered financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.