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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media post, the facility indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant monetary input,” the operator noted.

In a recent statement, the sanctuary confirmed 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 untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the manager remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would rethink the plan to put them down.

The manager stated that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we handle this tragic situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the decision to humanely kill the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director commented that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it featured on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.