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

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online post, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable capital investment,” the manager noted.

In a subsequent statement, the park announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

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

The park’s announcements were filled with responses from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The manager stated that among the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and decency as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the decision to put down the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and containment obligations.”

The park gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to close until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.