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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online post, the facility indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” commented the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial capital investment,” the operator explained.

In a recent announcement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or humane option” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with comments from the community, pleading for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The manager noted that amid the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and abusive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and decency as we handle this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to euthanise the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

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

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility repeatedly ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.