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

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

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

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the director noted.

In a subsequent update, the facility 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 worsening. These actions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the manager remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The operator noted that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the decision to put down the cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The facility achieved minor fame 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 keeper was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility often experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the facility to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.