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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online post, the establishment explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable capital investment,” the operator added.

In a later statement, the park announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

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

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

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

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from the community, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would rethink the decision to put them down.

The manager noted that among the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we navigate this devastating predicament.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to put down the lions was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure obligations.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary often experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to shut down until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.