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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media update, the facility clarified 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 “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the operator added.

In a recent update, the park announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the director stated.

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 expressed interest in acquiring the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, begging for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The operator noted that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we handle this tragic situation.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department indicated that the determination to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and containment obligations.”

The sanctuary gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary repeatedly encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to close until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.