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

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

In a social media update, the facility explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are devastated,” commented the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the manager explained.

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

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

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would rethink the course of action to end their lives.

The director mentioned that alongside the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and respect as we manage this devastating situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to humanely kill the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The facility gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility frequently encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to shut down until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.