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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced 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 city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online post, the facility 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 euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are devastated,” commented the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but significant capital investment,” the operator explained.

In a subsequent statement, the park verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“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 deep care and thoughtfulness,” the director remarked.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the park would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The director mentioned that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request consideration and decency as we handle this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to humanely kill the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A deputy director commented that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The facility achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

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

The sanctuary frequently ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to close until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.