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A financially troubled 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 undecided, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online post, 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 difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but significant monetary input,” the operator noted.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the decision to end their lives.

The operator noted that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and decency as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to euthanise the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The park attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.