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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a online post, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial capital investment,” the director noted.

In a subsequent update, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or compassionate choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from members of the public, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to euthanise the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The park attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility often ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to close until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.