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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media post, the facility clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the director explained.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from the community, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The operator noted that alongside the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to put down the cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director commented that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

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

The sanctuary repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.