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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media announcement, the facility indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are devastated,” stated the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the director noted.

In a subsequent update, the sanctuary 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 declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator said.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or humane choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that alongside the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request kindness and courtesy as we handle this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The park gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility often ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.