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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media update, the facility explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said 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 property but substantial financial backing,” the director explained.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the facility would rethink the course of action to put them down.

The manager stated that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request compassion and respect as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to put down the cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

The facility attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility often encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to close until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.