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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility clarified 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 put down “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable capital investment,” the director explained.

In a recent statement, the park verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. While the deadline is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or compassionate alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The director noted that among the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The government department stated that the choice to euthanise the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

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

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility often ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.