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

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

In a social media post, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable capital investment,” the operator noted.

In a recent announcement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

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

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A few individuals have shown interest in buying the property and providing for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the park would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The operator stated that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to put down the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.