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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

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

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” stated the facility’s manager.

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

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager said.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or compassionate alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from members of the public, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would review the plan to put them down.

The operator mentioned that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we request consideration and respect as we handle this heartbreaking predicament.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to euthanise the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

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

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The park gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.