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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a online announcement, the establishment explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” commented the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a recent update, the park announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager said.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from the community, begging for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the course of action to put them down.

The manager stated that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request kindness and respect as we handle this devastating circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park often encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.