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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility clarified that its proprietor 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 “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated the facility’s manager.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable monetary input,” the director noted.

In a later announcement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is tight and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or compassionate choice” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from the community, begging for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to put them down.

The director stated that alongside the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we ask for kindness and respect as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to euthanise the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the official said. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The facility achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility often experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.