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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a online announcement, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial capital investment,” the operator added.

In a later statement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

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 providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from members of the public, pleading for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the park would review the course of action to put them down.

The director stated that alongside the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to euthanise the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to close until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.