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

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

In a social media update, the facility explained that its proprietor 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 “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the manager added.

In a later statement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The operator stated that amid the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department stated that the determination to put down the big cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the official said. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The facility achieved a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility frequently ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to shut down until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.