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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a online post, the facility explained 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 euthanised “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable monetary input,” the operator explained.

In a later announcement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“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 deep care and consideration,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would rethink the course of action to put them down.

The director noted that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request consideration and respect as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the decision to put down the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that humane killing had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to shut down until the habitats were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.