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

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial financial backing,” the operator added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator said.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from the community, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the park would rethink the decision to put them down.

The operator mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to threatening and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we navigate this devastating predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A deputy director commented that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to shut down until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.