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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a online post, the establishment 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 “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a subsequent update, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director said.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would review the decision to end their lives.

The director stated that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and decency as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the choice to humanely kill the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

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

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park frequently ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the facility to shut down until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.