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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

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

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the operator added.

In a recent update, the park verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

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

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager noted that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the determination to put down the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

The park gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park frequently ran into monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to shut down until the enclosures were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.