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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media post, the establishment explained that its owner had put the property 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 landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are devastated,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial monetary input,” the director noted.

In a subsequent statement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the director said.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. While the window is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed desire that the park would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The director stated that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and decency as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to humanely kill the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

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

“An compliance official will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently ran into economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.