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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 fate of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online update, the facility explained that its owner 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 “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are devastated,” said the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant capital investment,” the director added.

In a subsequent update, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from the community, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The operator noted that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request consideration and respect as we handle this devastating situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to euthanise the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

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

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often ran into economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the facility to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.