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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the 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, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the operator explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator stated.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, pleading for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the park would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The manager stated that alongside the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and decency as we handle this heartbreaking predicament.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to euthanise the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done properly,” the official said. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary frequently experienced economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to close until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.