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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the operator explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager noted that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and respect as we handle this devastating situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the choice to put down the big cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

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

“An compliance official will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.