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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media update, the facility indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the director noted.

In a recent announcement, the park verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the park would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The manager noted that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we ask for kindness and decency as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the determination to humanely kill the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

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

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park often experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to close until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.