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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media update, the establishment clarified that its owner 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 “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable monetary input,” the operator noted.

In a recent update, the park verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator stated.

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

“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 unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The director noted that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and decency as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department stated that the choice to euthanise the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be carried out humanely, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and containment requirements.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

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

The facility frequently encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.