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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media update, the facility indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial monetary input,” the director explained.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from the community, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would review the decision to euthanise them.

The manager noted that amid the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request kindness and decency as we navigate this devastating predicament.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the decision to euthanise the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and containment obligations.”

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

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently encountered economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.