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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a online post, the facility indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are heartbroken,” said the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent announcement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The director stated that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and insulting comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request consideration and respect as we handle this devastating situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the choice to euthanise the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A senior official explained that humane killing had to be conducted humanely, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.