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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

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

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are heartbroken,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial monetary input,” the manager explained.

In a recent update, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the director said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from members of the public, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The manager mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request consideration and respect as we manage this devastating situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the determination to put down the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A senior official commented that humane killing had to be performed humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

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

The facility achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly ran into economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.