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

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

In a social media announcement, 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 landowner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a later update, the facility verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The manager stated that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the determination to put down the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and containment obligations.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.