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

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media post, the facility clarified 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 put down “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are heartbroken,” commented the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a subsequent update, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the manager stated.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. While the window is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would review the decision to put them down.

The manager mentioned that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and decency as we handle this tragic situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the choice to put down the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and security requirements.”

The park attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

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

The sanctuary frequently encountered financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to shut down until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.