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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, 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 put down “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are heartbroken,” said the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable monetary input,” the operator added.

In a later update, the facility verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager stated.

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 indicated willingness in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would review the course of action to end their lives.

The director noted that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department indicated that the choice to put down the lions lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.