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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online update, the facility indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the director explained.

In a subsequent announcement, the park announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the park would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The manager mentioned that among the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered hostile and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department indicated that the decision to put down the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the official stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its animal care and security requirements.”

The park achieved a degree of notoriety 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 staff member was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to shut down until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.