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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media update, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are devastated,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial monetary input,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent announcement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. Although the window is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or humane alternative” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The manager stated that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to humanely kill the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director commented that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

The park attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility often experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.