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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media post, the establishment clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are heartbroken,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial financial backing,” the director noted.

In a later statement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is tight and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The operator mentioned that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to euthanise the cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure obligations.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

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

The sanctuary often ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to close until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.