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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media update, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are devastated,” commented the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable financial backing,” the operator explained.

In a later announcement, the park announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the director remarked.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would review the course of action to put them down.

The manager mentioned that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to humanely kill the cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to close until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.