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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the facility explained that its proprietor 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 landowner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but significant financial backing,” the manager noted.

In a recent update, the facility announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from the community, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed desire that the sanctuary would review the decision to euthanise them.

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

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request kindness and decency as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to put down the big cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

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

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary often ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.