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

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

In a social media post, the establishment indicated that its owner 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 challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable capital investment,” the manager noted.

In a subsequent announcement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the manager stated.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or compassionate choice” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from the community, pleading for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The operator stated that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to euthanise the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official commented that humane killing had to be conducted humanely, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and containment requirements.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the establishment to shut down until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.