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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its older 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 ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online update, 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 put down “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” commented the facility’s manager.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable capital investment,” the manager noted.

In a subsequent statement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with responses from the community, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the sanctuary would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The manager stated that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the choice to euthanise the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A senior official commented that humane killing had to be performed humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the official stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

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

The park often ran into economic issues and staffing problems, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to close until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.