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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to put down two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a online post, the facility indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a later statement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the property and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The director noted that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive comments.

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

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to humanely kill the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

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

The facility frequently encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the facility to shut down until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.