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

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

In a online post, the facility clarified 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 euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the operator noted.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or compassionate option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the course of action to put them down.

The operator noted that alongside the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request compassion and respect as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to euthanise the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are confident that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park frequently ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to close until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.