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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment 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 euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are devastated,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the manager added.

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

“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 profound consideration and consideration,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the park would rethink the decision to put them down.

The director noted that amid the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department stated that the choice to humanely kill the cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The park attained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park frequently ran into economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.