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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 destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media update, the establishment explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are devastated,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the operator noted.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from the community, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that alongside the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also received threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request kindness and courtesy as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to humanely kill the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park frequently experienced economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.