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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online announcement, the establishment explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” stated the facility’s manager.

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial capital investment,” the operator added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A several interested parties have shown interest in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the park would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The director noted that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for compassion and respect as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to euthanise the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and containment obligations.”

The park attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park frequently ran into economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to shut down until the habitats were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.