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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 outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media update, the facility explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the manager explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the manager said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The operator noted that among the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and abusive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to put down the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the official stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The park attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to close until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.