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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment 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 put down “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the manager noted.

In a later announcement, the facility announced 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 not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or compassionate choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were flooded with comments from the community, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the sanctuary would review the plan to put them down.

The manager noted that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we handle this heartbreaking predicament.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to euthanise the lions was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the official stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame 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 staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the facility to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.