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

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment clarified that its owner 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.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but significant capital investment,” the manager explained.

In a recent statement, the park announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

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

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from members of the public, pleading for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the facility would review the plan to end their lives.

The manager noted that among the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the decision to euthanise the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be carried out ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done properly,” the official noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park frequently experienced economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.