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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to put down two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online update, the facility explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” commented 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 land but considerable capital investment,” the manager added.

In a subsequent update, the facility verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the director stated.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane option” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from the community, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager noted that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request kindness and respect as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director commented that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the official stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its animal care and containment obligations.”

The facility attained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

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

The park repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.