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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to put down two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media post, the facility 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 euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable capital investment,” the manager added.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from the community, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The manager stated that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and insulting comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to put down the big cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be conducted ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

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

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary frequently encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to shut down until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.