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

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

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

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but significant capital investment,” the manager explained.

In a later statement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that among the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and respect as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the decision to euthanise the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be performed humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are confident that the facility continues to meet its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park frequently experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to close until the enclosures were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.