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

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

In a social media post, the establishment explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are heartbroken,” commented the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the operator added.

In a subsequent announcement, the park announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager stated that alongside the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the choice to put down the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.