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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other 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 update, the establishment explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the manager explained.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director stated.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the park would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this devastating predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department stated that the decision to humanely kill the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and containment obligations.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility repeatedly ran into economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to close until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.