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

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media post, the facility indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable monetary input,” the operator noted.

In a later update, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The director stated that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the choice to euthanise the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and containment requirements.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

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

The park repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.