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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a online announcement, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the 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 employees and I are heartbroken,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a later update, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager said.

However, there was a “glimmer 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 facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The operator stated that alongside the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and abusive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and decency as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to euthanise the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are confident that the facility continues to meet its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park frequently experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.