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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to euthanise two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the manager added.

In a recent update, the park 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 untreatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The manager noted that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and insulting comments.

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

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to cease operations until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.