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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to euthanise 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 closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the facility indicated that its proprietor had put the property 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 landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but significant monetary input,” the manager added.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would review the decision to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and abusive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and respect as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to euthanise the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

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

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and containment requirements.”

The park gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility often experienced economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to close until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.