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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility clarified 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 tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant capital investment,” the manager added.

In a recent announcement, the facility 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 declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have shown interest in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with responses from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The director noted that amid the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request consideration and courtesy as we handle this tragic situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to put down the lions was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.