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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online update, the facility clarified 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 difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are devastated,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the director noted.

In a later statement, the park verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the director said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. While the window is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane option” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with responses from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would review the plan to euthanise them.

The director noted that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to euthanise the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary often ran into monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.