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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a online announcement, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are heartbroken,” said the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but significant financial backing,” the manager noted.

In a later announcement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

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

The operator noted that among the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and respect as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the determination to euthanise the lions was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director commented that humane killing had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are confident that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The park gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often ran into monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.