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

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

In a online update, the establishment explained 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 euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are devastated,” stated the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant capital investment,” the director added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager said.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and offensive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body indicated that the choice to euthanise the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure obligations.”

The park gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park frequently encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to close until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.