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

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility clarified that its owner 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 challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are devastated,” said the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial capital investment,” the manager explained.

In a recent statement, the park verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The director noted that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and respect as we manage this tragic situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the choice to euthanise the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and security obligations.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park repeatedly experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to shut down until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.