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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online update, the facility clarified 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 euthanised “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are devastated,” commented the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant monetary input,” the manager explained.

In a subsequent update, the sanctuary 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 not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager said.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is tight and the conditions 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 “practical or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from the community, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The manager noted that alongside the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we navigate this devastating predicament.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the choice to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

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

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park repeatedly ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to close until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.