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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to put down two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment indicated 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 put down “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the operator added.

In a recent statement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator stated.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and keep hope alive.”

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

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would rethink the course of action to put them down.

The operator mentioned that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department stated that the determination to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be conducted humanely, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to confirm this is done correctly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security requirements.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to shut down until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.