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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

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

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant capital investment,” the director added.

In a later announcement, the park verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The director noted that alongside the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and insulting comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the decision to humanely kill the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and containment requirements.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park frequently ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the facility to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.