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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older 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 online announcement, the facility explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the director noted.

In a subsequent announcement, the park confirmed 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 declining. These actions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the manager stated.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or compassionate option” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would review the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator stated that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and decency as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to euthanise the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The park attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary frequently encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to shut down until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.