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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment explained that its owner 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 tough decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are heartbroken,” said the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable capital investment,” the director added.

In a subsequent statement, the park 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 profound consideration and consideration,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the facility and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or humane option” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from the community, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the park would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The operator mentioned that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and courtesy as we handle this devastating situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the choice to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A senior official stated that humane killing had to be performed humanely, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its animal care and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility often ran into monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to shut down until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.