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

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online post, the facility indicated that its proprietor 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 heartbroken,” said the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but significant financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent announcement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the manager remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we handle this tragic situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to humanely kill the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure obligations.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary repeatedly encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.