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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online update, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land 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 property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially 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 later update, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane option” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would review the course of action to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and offensive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and decency as we manage this tragic situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to humanely kill the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be conducted humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its animal care and containment requirements.”

The facility achieved a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility repeatedly ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to shut down until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.