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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment indicated 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 euthanised “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are heartbroken,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial capital investment,” the manager added.

In a subsequent statement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

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

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the plan to end their lives.

The operator mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and abusive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to euthanise the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often ran into economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to close until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.