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

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

In a social media post, the facility clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the operator added.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would review the decision to euthanise them.

The director noted that amid the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request compassion and respect as we handle this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to humanely kill the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

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

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility often experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.