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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online announcement, 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 put down “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are heartbroken,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable capital investment,” the manager added.

In a recent statement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the course of action to put them down.

The director mentioned that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department stated that the determination to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure obligations.”

The park gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility often encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.