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

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

In a online update, the facility indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the director explained.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director remarked.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

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

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The manager noted that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to euthanise the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official stated that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to close until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.