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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online post, the establishment explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the operator explained.

In a subsequent update, the sanctuary 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 deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the property and providing for the lions. Even though the window is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would review the plan to end their lives.

The operator noted that alongside the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request consideration and respect as we handle this devastating situation.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the decision to put down the cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to shut down until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.