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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a online announcement, the facility clarified 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 put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial capital investment,” the operator noted.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. While the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or compassionate alternative” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The director noted that amid the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request compassion and decency as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the choice to humanely kill the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to meet its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

The park attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

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

The park often experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.