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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online post, the facility indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 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,” said the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable capital investment,” the manager explained.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager said.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from the community, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would review the decision to end their lives.

The operator stated that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and insulting messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we manage this tragic situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to euthanise the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The sanctuary achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility often ran into monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to shut down until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.