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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online post, the establishment indicated 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 “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable capital investment,” the operator added.

In a subsequent update, the park announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or compassionate alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would review the decision to euthanise them.

The director stated that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and decency as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the determination to euthanise the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official explained that humane killing had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

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

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park often experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.