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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a online post, the facility explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are heartbroken,” said the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the director added.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is short and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The manager stated that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and offensive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we request kindness and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to humanely kill the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be conducted humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its animal care and containment requirements.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the facility to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.