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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online update, the facility clarified that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant capital investment,” the manager noted.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director stated.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from the community, begging for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the decision to euthanise them.

The manager noted that amid the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and abusive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request kindness and courtesy as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the decision to euthanise the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park often encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to shut down until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.