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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to put down two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media update, 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 put down “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are devastated,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable capital investment,” the operator noted.

In a later statement, 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 not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the course of action to end their lives.

The director mentioned that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and respect as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal care and containment requirements.”

The park achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.