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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to put down two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a online post, the establishment explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the manager explained.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the director stated.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would rethink the plan to put them down.

The director stated that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.