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

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

In a online announcement, the facility clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the operator explained.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager stated.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to explore this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the decision to put them down.

The operator stated that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and offensive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and decency as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to humanely kill the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.