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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a online update, the establishment explained that its proprietor 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 difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are devastated,” stated the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial capital investment,” the manager noted.

In a subsequent statement, the park verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or humane option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator noted that among the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered hostile and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and respect as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

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

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park often experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to close until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.