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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to put down two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media announcement, the facility explained 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 euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial capital investment,” the manager noted.

In a subsequent statement, the park announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager stated.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the park would rethink the course of action to end their lives.

The director mentioned that among the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request consideration and decency as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to euthanise the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The sanctuary achieved 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 rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to close until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.