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

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

In a online update, the facility explained 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 “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the manager noted.

In a subsequent announcement, the park verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the park would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The operator stated that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the choice to put down the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to shut down until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.