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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to put down two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online post, the establishment clarified 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 euthanised “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant monetary input,” the manager added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the facility and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

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

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from the community, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the facility would review the course of action to put them down.

The operator noted that alongside the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to put down the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The facility gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary repeatedly ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to close until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.