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

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

In a online update, the establishment clarified that its proprietor 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 challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are devastated,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a recent update, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were declining. These actions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane choice” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The operator noted that alongside the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request consideration and courtesy as we handle this devastating situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to euthanise the lions was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done correctly,” the official stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The park achieved a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly ran into economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to close until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.