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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial capital investment,” the operator noted.

In a recent announcement, the park confirmed 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 not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

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

The park’s announcements were filled with responses from members of the public, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would rethink the course of action to end their lives.

The director stated that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and respect as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the decision to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A senior official commented that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and security requirements.”

The park gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.