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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media update, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but significant financial backing,” the manager noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager remarked.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would review the plan to put them down.

The manager stated that amid the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and abusive messages.

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

The proprietor declined to comment.

The government department stated that the determination to euthanise the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be conducted humanely, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are confident that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly encountered economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.