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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online update, the facility clarified that its proprietor 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 “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial monetary input,” the manager explained.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the director said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from the community, requesting a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The operator stated that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the determination to put down the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

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

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The sanctuary gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to close until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.