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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

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

In a online post, the facility clarified that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the director explained.

In a later update, the facility verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the manager remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The operator mentioned that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request kindness and respect as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the determination to euthanise the lions lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official stated that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and security obligations.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency instructed the establishment to shut down until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.