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

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

In a social media announcement, the facility clarified 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 landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the operator explained.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from the community, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The director stated that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the decision to euthanise the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to confirm this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security requirements.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to close until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.