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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past 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 put down “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” said the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the operator added.

In a subsequent statement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or humane option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would review the decision to euthanise them.

The operator noted that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request kindness and decency as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility often encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to close until the habitats were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.