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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other 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 social media post, the facility explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are devastated,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the operator explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator said.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would review the decision to euthanise them.

The manager noted that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the choice to euthanise the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and security requirements.”

The sanctuary attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park repeatedly ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to shut down until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.