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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but significant capital investment,” the director noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the plan to put them down.

The director noted that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

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

A senior official explained that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

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

The facility gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly ran into economic issues and staffing problems, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.