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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a online post, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the operator explained.

In a recent update, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

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

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed desire that the sanctuary would review the plan to put them down.

The manager noted that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and offensive messages.

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

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the determination to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the facility to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.