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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment clarified 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 euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial capital investment,” the operator noted.

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

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

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the property and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate choice” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would review the decision to end their lives.

The operator stated that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to euthanise the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the official stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park frequently encountered financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.