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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to put down two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment clarified 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 put down “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the director added.

In a subsequent announcement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in acquiring the property and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

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

The manager mentioned that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we handle this tragic situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to euthanise the big cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to confirm this is done properly,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure obligations.”

The park gained 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 keeper was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the facility to shut down until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.