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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant monetary input,” the director noted.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the director remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the park would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and courtesy as we manage this devastating situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security obligations.”

The sanctuary gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park often ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.