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

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

In a social media post, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are devastated,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial monetary input,” the operator added.

In a subsequent statement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the plan to end their lives.

The operator noted that amid the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and abusive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request consideration and decency as we handle this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to euthanise the big cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the official stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and security obligations.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park frequently encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.