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

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

In a online announcement, the establishment explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are heartbroken,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the manager noted.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator said.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the plan to put them down.

The director noted that amid the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department stated that the determination to put down the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park frequently ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.