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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the director noted.

In a subsequent announcement, the sanctuary confirmed 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 untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator stated.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or compassionate alternative” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The director mentioned that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we handle this devastating situation.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and containment obligations.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility frequently experienced economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to close until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.