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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 destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are devastated,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a later update, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator stated.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the conditions 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 “feasible or humane option” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from the community, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the park would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The director stated that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request compassion and courtesy as we handle this devastating situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the choice to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary often experienced economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to shut down until the enclosures were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.