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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online post, the facility indicated 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 “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial capital investment,” the operator added.

In a later announcement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the property and providing for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The manager mentioned that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we request kindness and decency as we handle this tragic situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department stated that the choice to put down the lions was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure obligations.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park often encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to shut down until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.