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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the destiny 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 update, the establishment explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but significant monetary input,” the manager explained.

In a later announcement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the manager said.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, pleading for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

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

A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

The sanctuary achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently encountered economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to close until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.