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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a online post, the facility explained that its proprietor 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 “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent statement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The director stated that among the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and abusive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and decency as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the determination to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure obligations.”

The park attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently experienced economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to close until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.