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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online post, the establishment explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant capital investment,” the manager noted.

In a subsequent announcement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care 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 humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

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

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would review the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and decency as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the choice to humanely kill the cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

The park attained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

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

The facility frequently experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.