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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are devastated,” commented the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the director explained.

In a recent statement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or humane alternative” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator noted that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we handle this devastating situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park often encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the facility to close until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.