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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to euthanise two of its older lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility clarified 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 “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial capital investment,” the manager noted.

In a recent announcement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from the community, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the sanctuary would review the plan to euthanise them.

The director stated that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and courtesy as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the decision to euthanise the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be carried out ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The facility gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it was shown on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

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

The sanctuary repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.