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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media announcement, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land 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 staff and I are devastated,” stated the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but significant monetary input,” the director added.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the park would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the determination to humanely kill the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

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

The sanctuary achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

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

The facility repeatedly encountered economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.