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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to euthanise two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media update, the facility clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial capital investment,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent update, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from the community, pleading for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The manager noted that amid the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and decency as we handle this devastating situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to humanely kill the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to meet its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.