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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are devastated,” stated the facility’s manager.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a later announcement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would review the plan to put them down.

The manager noted that alongside the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and respect as we handle this tragic situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to humanely kill the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A senior official stated that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to meet its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.