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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media update, 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 put down “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a recent update, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator remarked.

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 indicated willingness in buying the property and providing for the lions. While the window is short and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or humane option” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from the community, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would review the plan to put them down.

The manager stated that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to humanely kill the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility repeatedly ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.