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

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment indicated 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 euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial financial backing,” the operator explained.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the property and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane option” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The manager noted that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request consideration and respect as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to euthanise the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

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

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park frequently ran into economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.