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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled 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 past weekend.

In a social media update, the facility clarified 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 put down “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial financial backing,” the director noted.

In a recent announcement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager stated.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the plan to euthanise them.

The operator stated that among the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also received threatening and insulting comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we handle this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to humanely kill the lions was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the official noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure obligations.”

The facility attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often ran into economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.