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A struggling 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 weekend.

In a online post, the facility indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial financial backing,” the director explained.

In a recent statement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The operator stated that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and decency as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the determination to euthanise the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

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

The facility repeatedly experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to close until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.