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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable capital investment,” the operator explained.

In a recent update, the sanctuary announced 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 decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager said.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The manager stated that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we request kindness and courtesy as we manage this devastating situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

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

A senior official commented that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary repeatedly encountered financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.