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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to euthanise two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media announcement, the facility indicated 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 put down “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the director explained.

In a later update, the facility verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The manager stated that alongside the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and offensive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request kindness and decency as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to humanely kill the big cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility repeatedly encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.