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

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

In a online announcement, the establishment 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 euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial monetary input,” the operator noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the director remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The manager stated that amid the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we manage this devastating situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to humanely kill the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The facility attained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park frequently encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.