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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online update, the establishment clarified 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 put down “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the manager noted.

In a later statement, the facility confirmed 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 untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from the community, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the facility would review the plan to end their lives.

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

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

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

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

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

The facility repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to shut down until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.