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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the facility indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are heartbroken,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant capital investment,” the manager added.

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 significant medical issues that were incurable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director stated.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical choice” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the park would review the plan to end their lives.

The operator noted that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and respect as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the choice to put down the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done properly,” the official said. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

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

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary frequently experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to close until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.