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A financially troubled 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 unclear, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media post, the facility clarified 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 “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the director added.

In a later update, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be euthanised.

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

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the park would review the plan to end their lives.

The manager stated that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and insulting messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request compassion and decency as we manage this tragic situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

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

A senior official explained that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The park attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility often experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to close until the habitats were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.