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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial monetary input,” the director added.

In a recent statement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the manager stated.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from members of the public, pleading for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would review the decision to put them down.

The director noted that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and abusive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner refused 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 plan.

A deputy director commented that humane killing had to be conducted humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.