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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial monetary input,” the director noted.

In a recent update, the facility verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or compassionate option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would rethink the plan to put them down.

The director mentioned that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request consideration and respect as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure obligations.”

The park attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility often ran into economic issues and staffing problems, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to close until the enclosures were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.