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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to put down two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media post, the establishment explained that its owner 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 property owner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial monetary input,” the operator noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” 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 shown interest in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The manager stated that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and decency as we manage this devastating situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to put down the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

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

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.