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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant monetary input,” the operator added.

In a recent statement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

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 indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would review the plan to end their lives.

The operator stated that among the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to put down the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“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 wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.