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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to euthanise two of its elderly 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 past weekend.

In a online update, the facility 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 put down “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are devastated,” commented the facility’s manager.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant monetary input,” the operator added.

In a recent statement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from members of the public, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would review the decision to end their lives.

The manager noted that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and abusive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request compassion and respect as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to put down the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The park attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary frequently encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.