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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the 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 euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” said 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 substantial monetary input,” the manager explained.

In a later update, 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 profound consideration and consideration,” the operator said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the window is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would rethink the decision to put them down.

The manager stated that alongside the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and decency as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A senior official stated that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The sanctuary attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park often ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to close until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.