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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media update, the establishment indicated 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 euthanised “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial financial backing,” the operator explained.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or humane choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from the community, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed desire that the park would rethink the course of action to put them down.

The manager mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and insulting messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we manage this devastating situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

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

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and security obligations.”

The facility attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.