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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

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

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are heartbroken,” said the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but significant monetary input,” the manager noted.

In a later statement, the sanctuary confirmed 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 declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The operator noted that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department stated that the choice to euthanise the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A senior official explained that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.