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

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but significant monetary input,” the operator added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager said.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue 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 quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from the community, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the course of action to put them down.

The operator mentioned that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request kindness and decency as we handle this devastating situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and containment requirements.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

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

The sanctuary repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the establishment to close until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.