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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled 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 park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are heartbroken,” said the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial financial backing,” the director noted.

In a recent statement, the park announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the director said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The manager mentioned that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to put down the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The park attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

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

The park frequently encountered financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to shut down until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.