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

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

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

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are devastated,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial monetary input,” the operator added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for kindness and decency as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to humanely kill the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

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

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility often experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to close until the facilities were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.