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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

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

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

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable monetary input,” the director explained.

In a subsequent update, 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 untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator stated.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the property and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or compassionate option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would rethink the course of action to put them down.

The operator mentioned that amid the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and respect as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its animal care and security obligations.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly experienced economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to close until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.