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

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

In a online update, the facility clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” said the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial capital investment,” the director noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or humane option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were flooded with comments from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The director noted that amid the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we ask for compassion and respect as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to euthanise the lions was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A senior official explained that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently experienced economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to shut down until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.