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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment 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 tough decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are heartbroken,” said the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the manager explained.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director said.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the property and providing for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and hold onto hope.”

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

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The director mentioned that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we handle this tragic situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the choice to euthanise the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A deputy director commented that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park often experienced economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to close until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.