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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to euthanise two of its older lions, with the outcome 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 update, the facility explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a subsequent statement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would rethink the course of action to end their lives.

The manager noted that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive remarks.

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

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the choice to put down the lions was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety 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 facility often experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.