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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

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

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are devastated,” said the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the manager noted.

In a later statement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with responses from the community, pleading for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The director mentioned that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we manage this devastating situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the decision to humanely kill the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

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

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

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

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility often experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to close until the enclosures were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.