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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media update, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable monetary input,” the operator added.

In a later announcement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The manager stated that alongside the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the decision to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are confident that the facility continues to meet its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The park attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park repeatedly experienced economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.