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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, 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 explained 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 euthanised “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are devastated,” said the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the operator explained.

In a later announcement, the park announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the manager remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The director mentioned that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for compassion and respect as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to put down the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to confirm this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The park gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to shut down until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.