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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a online announcement, the establishment clarified that its proprietor 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 difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial financial backing,” the operator added.

In a recent update, the park announced 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 worsening. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the director remarked.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The operator stated that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to put down the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and containment obligations.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to shut down until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.