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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media update, the facility explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant monetary input,” the manager noted.

In a subsequent statement, the park announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or humane alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would review the course of action to end their lives.

The operator noted that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and insulting comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to euthanise the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

The sanctuary gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

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

The sanctuary frequently experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.