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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to put down two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

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

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the manager noted.

In a later announcement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the park would review the decision to euthanise them.

The director stated that alongside the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also received threatening and abusive messages.

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

The proprietor refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to put down the cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

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

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility often experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to shut down until the enclosures were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.