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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to put down two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

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

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but significant capital investment,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent statement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the manager said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in acquiring the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or compassionate alternative” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would review the course of action to put them down.

The director mentioned that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and decency as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to humanely kill the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the official noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The park attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park often ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to shut down until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.