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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to put down two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media update, the facility explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial capital investment,” the manager added.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would review the decision to end their lives.

The operator noted that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request consideration and courtesy as we manage this tragic situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to euthanise the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The park achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary often experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to shut down until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.