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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 fate of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online update, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are heartbroken,” commented the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a recent statement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. Although the window is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the sanctuary would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request compassion and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility often encountered economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to shut down until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.