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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

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

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial monetary input,” the manager added.

In a recent announcement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or compassionate alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to put them down.

The operator stated that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the decision to put down the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility repeatedly encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the facility to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.