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

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

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

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are heartbroken,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant capital investment,” the director added.

In a recent statement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in buying the property and providing for the lions. Although the window is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed desire that the park would review the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that amid the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered threatening and offensive comments.

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

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department indicated that the decision to put down the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are confident that the facility continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary frequently encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to close until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.