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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to put down two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online post, 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 “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but significant financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a recent update, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

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

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and respect as we handle this devastating circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to humanely kill the lions was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the official stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and security obligations.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility often encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the facility to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.