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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media update, the establishment indicated 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 challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable capital investment,” the director noted.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The manager noted that among the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the choice to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and security requirements.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to close until the habitats were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.