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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to put down two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment clarified that its owner had put the property 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 staff and I are heartbroken,” commented the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial monetary input,” the operator noted.

In a recent statement, the park verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the manager said.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from the community, begging for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The director noted that alongside the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the choice to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

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

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park often experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.