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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media announcement, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are devastated,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the operator added.

In a recent announcement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from the community, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the facility would rethink the course of action to put them down.

The operator noted that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we handle this tragic situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the choice to euthanise the cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official stated that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

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

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park repeatedly ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.