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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a online announcement, 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 euthanised “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are devastated,” commented the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable capital investment,” the manager explained.

In a subsequent statement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were worsening. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the director stated.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The manager mentioned that among the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered hostile and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and decency as we handle this devastating situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to humanely kill the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility often experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.