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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its older lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media post, the facility clarified 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 euthanised “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but significant monetary input,” the director explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were worsening. These actions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the director remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have shown interest in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. While the window is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

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

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The director noted that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and decency as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to put down the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to confirm this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment obligations.”

The park attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park frequently experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to close until the habitats were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.