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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a online announcement, the facility indicated 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 “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable monetary input,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent statement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director stated.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would review the course of action to put them down.

The operator noted that amid the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and respect as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to euthanise the lions was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary often encountered financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.