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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its senior 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 closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media update, the facility indicated 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 put down “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are heartbroken,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant monetary input,” the operator added.

In a subsequent statement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the director said.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would review the decision to end their lives.

The director noted that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and respect as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the determination to euthanise the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be conducted humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The park gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary frequently ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.