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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media post, the facility indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but significant capital investment,” the director explained.

In a subsequent update, the park announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate choice” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from the community, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the plan to end their lives.

The operator mentioned that among the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and insulting comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we manage this tragic situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to put down the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security obligations.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park frequently ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency instructed the establishment to shut down until the facilities were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.