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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

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

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are devastated,” said the facility’s manager.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial monetary input,” the manager noted.

In a later statement, the sanctuary verified 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 declining. These actions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the director remarked.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The director stated that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and insulting messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the decision to put down the lions was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

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

The park repeatedly ran into economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.