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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a online announcement, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 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 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 property but significant financial backing,” the director explained.

In a recent update, the park verified 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 not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

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

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the park would review the decision to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to put down the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary often ran into economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.