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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online update, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial monetary input,” the director explained.

In a subsequent statement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from the community, begging for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The manager mentioned that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to threatening and abusive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request consideration and respect as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to put down the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are confident that the facility continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary often ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to close until the habitats were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.