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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 fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment 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 “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant capital investment,” the operator added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would review the plan to put them down.

The director noted that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and decency as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to euthanise the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be conducted humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The park attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary frequently ran into economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.