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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online update, the facility indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are devastated,” said the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant capital investment,” the operator added.

In a subsequent 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 incurable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have shown interest in acquiring the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate option” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from the community, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to put them down.

The manager mentioned that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we request compassion and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to humanely kill the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.