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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a online post, the establishment indicated that its owner 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 tough decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial monetary input,” the director explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane choice” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The operator noted that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and insulting messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the determination to humanely kill the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer stated that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and security obligations.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

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

The facility frequently experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.