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

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media 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 difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are devastated,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable monetary input,” the manager noted.

In a later announcement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from the community, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would rethink the course of action to put them down.

The director noted that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the decision to euthanise the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to close until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.