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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to euthanise two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media update, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are devastated,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but significant monetary input,” the director explained.

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

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

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A few individuals have shown interest in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The director noted that alongside the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request consideration and decency as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment obligations.”

The park attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to shut down until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.