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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

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

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable capital investment,” the manager added.

In a subsequent update, the facility announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

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

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator noted that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request compassion and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to euthanise the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to close until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.