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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to put down two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment explained that its owner 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 difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a later announcement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the property and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The director stated that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and respect as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to put down the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A deputy director commented that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park repeatedly experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.