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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial monetary input,” the manager explained.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator stated.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

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

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would review the decision to put them down.

The director mentioned that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request consideration and respect as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to humanely kill the lions was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be performed humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.