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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility explained that its proprietor had listed the land 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.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are devastated,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable capital investment,” the manager explained.

In a later announcement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

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

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the park would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The manager noted that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and respect as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to humanely kill the lions was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and enclosure obligations.”

The park gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to shut down until the enclosures were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.