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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online update, the facility indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are heartbroken,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable capital investment,” the manager added.

In a later announcement, the park verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or humane choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would review the decision to put them down.

The manager mentioned that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and abusive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the choice to humanely kill the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

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

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency instructed the establishment to shut down until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.