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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

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

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” said the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant financial backing,” the manager added.

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

“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 manager stated.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats 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 review the decision to euthanise them.

The operator noted that among the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to threatening and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for compassion and respect as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to humanely kill the lions was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official explained that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure obligations.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park often experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to shut down until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.