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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 fate of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online update, the establishment clarified that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial financial backing,” the operator added.

In a later update, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

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

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. While the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The manager stated that alongside the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the choice to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official stated that humane killing had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the official stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal care and security obligations.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary repeatedly experienced economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.