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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

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

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant monetary input,” the operator explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator said.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or humane alternative” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The operator mentioned that amid the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and decency as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

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

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be conducted humanely, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

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

The park often encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the park to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.