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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online update, the establishment indicated 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 put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are devastated,” commented the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable capital investment,” the manager explained.

In a later statement, the park verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the manager stated.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from the community, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would review the plan to euthanise them.

The manager mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request consideration and respect as we navigate this devastating predicament.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to humanely kill the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The facility achieved a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park frequently experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.