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

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

In a social media post, the establishment explained 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 tough decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are devastated,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant capital investment,” the operator explained.

In a subsequent update, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator said.

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

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

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The director mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and abusive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to euthanise the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

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

The park often ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the facility to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.