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

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors 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 put down “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are devastated,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant financial backing,” the operator explained.

In a subsequent statement, the park announced 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 declining. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or compassionate alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The operator mentioned that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the choice to put down the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the official stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and security obligations.”

The park attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park often encountered economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.