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

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

In a online update, the facility clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial monetary input,” the manager noted.

In a recent announcement, the park verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The director noted that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and abusive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and respect as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to euthanise the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official stated that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and containment obligations.”

The park attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

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

The park frequently ran into economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.