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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media post, the facility explained that its owner had put the property 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 property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but significant monetary input,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent announcement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would review the plan to euthanise them.

The manager mentioned that among the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to threatening and abusive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we manage this devastating situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to euthanise the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done properly,” the official noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to close until the habitats were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.