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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media post, the facility 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 challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are devastated,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but significant monetary input,” the operator noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from the community, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the plan to put them down.

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

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to humanely kill the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure obligations.”

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

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.