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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online post, the facility explained 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 put down “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a recent announcement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed desire that the park would review the decision to end their lives.

The operator mentioned that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and respect as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The park attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently experienced economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to shut down until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.