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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online announcement, the facility indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are heartbroken,” said the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial monetary input,” the director explained.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in acquiring the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would review the plan to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that amid the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department indicated that the decision to put down the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to meet its animal care and security requirements.”

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

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park often experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.