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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” commented the facility’s manager.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but significant monetary input,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent statement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the operator said.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or humane choice” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would rethink the plan to end their lives.

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

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.