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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated 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 sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the director added.

In a subsequent statement, the park announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the manager stated.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The operator mentioned that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we request kindness and courtesy as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the decision to euthanise the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be conducted humanely, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The facility achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.