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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media update, the establishment indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a recent statement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the director remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. While the window is tight and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the decision to put down the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

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

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

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

The park repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to close until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.