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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment indicated 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 euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial monetary input,” the manager explained.

In a later announcement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager remarked.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The manager mentioned that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request kindness and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to put down the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park often ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.