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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online post, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable capital investment,” the manager noted.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director said.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the park would review the plan to end their lives.

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

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and respect as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the determination to humanely kill the lions was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility repeatedly encountered financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.