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

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

In a online announcement, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable capital investment,” the manager explained.

In a recent announcement, the sanctuary announced 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 untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director stated.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The director noted that amid the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to put down the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and security obligations.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility often ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to close until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.