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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to put down two of its older lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media post, the facility explained 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 difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial capital investment,” the manager added.

In a later announcement, the park announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from the community, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that amid the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and abusive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to euthanise the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

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

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.