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

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility clarified 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 put down “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the operator added.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the park would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The manager stated that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to humanely kill the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park repeatedly experienced economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to close until the enclosures were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.