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A beleaguered 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 unclear, following economic struggles.

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

In a online update, the establishment clarified that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are devastated,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable financial backing,” the operator noted.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager stated.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed desire that the facility would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The manager noted that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered threatening and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the determination to euthanise the cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official explained that humane killing had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure obligations.”

The park attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.