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

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

In a social media post, the facility explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are heartbroken,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the operator noted.

In a recent announcement, the park verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The operator noted that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the decision to put down the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to meet its animal care and containment requirements.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility often ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.