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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, 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 difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are heartbroken,” said the facility’s manager.

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but significant capital investment,” the director explained.

In a subsequent 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 incurable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The operator stated that among the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request compassion and courtesy as we handle this tragic situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to put down the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

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

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal care and security obligations.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility often encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.