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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media update, the establishment indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are devastated,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant capital investment,” the manager noted.

In a recent update, the park announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or humane option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the park would review the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator stated that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and abusive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request consideration and courtesy as we handle this devastating situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to put down the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be onsite to confirm this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary often encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to close until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.