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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are devastated,” 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 acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the director explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager remarked.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that amid the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and offensive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request compassion and respect as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to humanely kill the lions was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The park gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to shut down until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.