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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to put down two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment indicated 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 put down “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are devastated,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial capital investment,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent statement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director said.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and providing for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The manager noted that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and respect as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the choice to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the establishment to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.