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

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

In a online 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 “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial monetary input,” the operator added.

In a subsequent announcement, the park verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and maintain optimism.”

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

The park’s announcements were filled with responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The operator noted that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request compassion and courtesy as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The government department stated that the decision to humanely kill the cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director commented that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park frequently experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to shut down until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.