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

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment indicated that its proprietor 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 “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but significant financial backing,” the director explained.

In a recent update, the facility verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this option and keep hope alive.”

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

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, pleading for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager stated that amid the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request consideration and decency as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department stated that the decision to humanely kill the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park often ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.