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

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

In a social media announcement, the facility indicated that its owner 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 “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but significant monetary input,” the director added.

In a subsequent update, the park verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager said.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or compassionate choice” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

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

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we ask for kindness and decency as we manage this devastating situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to humanely kill the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

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

The sanctuary often encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to shut down until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.