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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are devastated,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial monetary input,” the manager added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that among the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for kindness and decency as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

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

A senior official stated that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park frequently experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.