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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to put down two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but significant financial backing,” the director explained.

In a subsequent update, the facility announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is tight and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from the community, begging for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The manager stated that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request consideration and respect as we handle this heartbreaking predicament.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to euthanise the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be performed humanely, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility frequently ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to shut down until the enclosures were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.