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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media post, the facility indicated 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 euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the operator added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from the community, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator stated that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to put down the cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A senior official explained that humane killing had to be performed humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment obligations.”

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

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.