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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

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

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a later announcement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator stated.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or ethical choice” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with comments from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the plan to euthanise them.

The operator stated that among the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we manage this devastating situation.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the determination to humanely kill the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and security requirements.”

The facility attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.