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

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

In a online post, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are devastated,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable monetary input,” the director explained.

In a subsequent announcement, the sanctuary confirmed 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 incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the director said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The director mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we handle this devastating situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the choice to euthanise the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The park gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently encountered financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the establishment to shut down until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.