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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility explained that its proprietor 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 “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable monetary input,” the director added.

In a later announcement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the director stated.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or compassionate option” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from the community, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The manager stated that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and decency as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the determination to put down the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A senior official stated that humane killing had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to meet its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility frequently encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to close until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.