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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other 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 post, the establishment indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but significant monetary input,” the operator added.

In a recent update, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

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

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would rethink the course of action to end their lives.

The operator stated that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the choice to euthanise the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

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

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to meet its animal care and containment requirements.”

The park gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly ran into economic issues and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.