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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

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

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable monetary input,” the director noted.

In a subsequent announcement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director remarked.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The operator stated that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and insulting messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and respect as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department stated that the choice to euthanise the lions lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

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

The facility often encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to close until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.