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

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

In a social media announcement, the facility clarified 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 euthanised “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are heartbroken,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable capital investment,” the director noted.

In a later announcement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the director remarked.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from the community, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would review the decision to euthanise them.

The manager stated that alongside the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also received threatening and abusive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to put down the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

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

The park achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to close until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.