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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

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

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are devastated,” stated the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable monetary input,” the operator added.

In a later announcement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would rethink the course of action to end their lives.

The manager noted that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to euthanise the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and containment obligations.”

The park attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park often encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the facility to shut down until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.