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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 outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but significant financial backing,” the manager noted.

In a later update, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The manager mentioned that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request consideration and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to humanely kill the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The park gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park often encountered financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.