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

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

In a social media announcement, the facility 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 euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the manager noted.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. While the deadline is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to put them down.

The operator noted that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we manage this tragic situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the decision to put down the big cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

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

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park often experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to shut down until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.