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

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online update, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are devastated,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable financial backing,” the operator noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the facility and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical alternative” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from the community, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The director noted that alongside the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we handle this devastating circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to put down the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility often encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to shut down until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.