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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment explained 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 “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a recent update, the facility verified 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 incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the manager said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. While the window is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would review the course of action to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and offensive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we navigate this devastating predicament.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The government department stated that the choice to put down the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The park attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured 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 big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility often encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to shut down until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.