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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are devastated,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial financial backing,” the operator explained.

In a subsequent update, the park announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane choice” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with responses from the community, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would rethink the course of action to put them down.

The director mentioned that among the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request compassion and decency as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department stated that the choice to euthanise the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.