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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to euthanise two of its older lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online update, the facility 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 euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant capital investment,” the manager explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator stated.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from the community, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would review the plan to end their lives.

The operator stated that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request consideration and courtesy as we manage this tragic situation.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the choice to put down the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and containment obligations.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to close until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.