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

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

In a online post, the establishment explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the director noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director stated.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or humane choice” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from the community, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the course of action to put them down.

The director stated that among the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and decency as we manage this tragic situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

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

A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure obligations.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

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

The sanctuary repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency instructed the establishment to close until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.