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

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment explained 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 difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but significant capital investment,” the manager noted.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from the community, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the course of action to put them down.

The director mentioned that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and respect as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to put down the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility often experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to close until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.