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

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the facility explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial financial backing,” the manager added.

In a later update, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the park would review the course of action to end their lives.

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

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we request consideration and decency as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the choice to put down the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary frequently ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.