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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a online update, the facility explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the manager added.

In a later update, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the manager said.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or humane alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from the community, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the park would review the plan to put them down.

The manager noted that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and insulting comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and courtesy as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The park gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.