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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online update, the establishment clarified 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 “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable monetary input,” the operator explained.

In a recent statement, the facility verified 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 worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have shown interest in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The manager stated that alongside the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and abusive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we ask for compassion and respect as we handle this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to humanely kill the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

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

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to close until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.