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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment indicated 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 put down “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable capital investment,” the manager added.

In a subsequent statement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. While the window is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would review the course of action to euthanise them.

The director stated that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and courtesy as we handle this devastating circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the determination to euthanise the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director commented that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the official said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment obligations.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the facility to shut down until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.