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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility explained 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 “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial monetary input,” the operator explained.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The operator stated that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for compassion and respect as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to put down the lions was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The facility gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the park to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.