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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media post, the facility explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but significant financial backing,” the operator added.

In a later update, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator said.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or compassionate alternative” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from the community, begging for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The director noted that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request kindness and respect as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the choice to euthanise the lions was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The park attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park frequently encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to shut down until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.