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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media post, the facility clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial monetary input,” the operator added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager said.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The director noted that among the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request compassion and respect as we navigate this devastating predicament.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to euthanise the lions lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official commented that humane killing had to be carried out ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The park attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently experienced economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to shut down until the facilities were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.