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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a online post, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial monetary input,” the manager noted.

In a recent update, the facility verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the director remarked.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from the community, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would review the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator noted that among the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to threatening and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we manage this tragic situation.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the determination to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be conducted ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done properly,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The sanctuary gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to cease operations until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.