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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media post, the facility indicated 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 “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but significant capital investment,” the manager added.

In a subsequent announcement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane option” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from the community, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would review the course of action to put them down.

The director noted that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for compassion and decency as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the decision to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park often experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to close until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.