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

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

In a online post, the facility 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 “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial capital investment,” the manager noted.

In a subsequent update, the facility announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager said.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”

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

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from the community, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would rethink the decision to put them down.

The manager stated that amid the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and respect as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the decision to put down the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park frequently ran into monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to shut down until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.