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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

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

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

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable monetary input,” the manager added.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or compassionate option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from the community, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered threatening and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to humanely kill the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently encountered economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.