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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online update, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the operator explained.

In a recent statement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. While the window is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from the community, pleading for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the park would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The director stated that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park often experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to close until the habitats were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.