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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to put down two of its older lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online post, the facility clarified 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 euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are heartbroken,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable monetary input,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent update, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the director said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or humane option” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The director noted that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and decency as we handle this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department indicated that the choice to euthanise the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be carried out humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure obligations.”

The park attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility repeatedly experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.