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

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

In a online announcement, the establishment indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial financial backing,” the director noted.

In a subsequent update, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or compassionate option” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, pleading for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The director mentioned that alongside the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and insulting comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department stated that the decision to put down the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be conducted humanely, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The facility gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly experienced economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to shut down until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.