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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online post, the facility indicated 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 challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are devastated,” commented the facility’s manager.

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable financial backing,” the director added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the manager stated.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the facility and providing for the lions. Even though the window is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would review the decision to put them down.

The operator stated that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to put down the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A senior official stated that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and security responsibilities.”

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

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary frequently experienced economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.