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

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

In a online update, the facility explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the 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 devastated,” stated the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but significant monetary input,” the director noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from the community, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would review the course of action to end their lives.

The operator noted that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive comments.

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

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to euthanise the cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

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

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

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

The park repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to shut down until the habitats were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.