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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media post, the establishment 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 difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are heartbroken,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial capital investment,” the manager added.

In a subsequent statement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director stated.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

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

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we handle this devastating situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to euthanise the lions was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director commented that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and containment obligations.”

The park attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility repeatedly ran into economic issues and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to close until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.