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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

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

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable financial backing,” the operator explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the park would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The operator stated that alongside the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official stated that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure obligations.”

The park gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to close until the enclosures were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.