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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a online update, the establishment 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 “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the director explained.

In a later announcement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the director said.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. While the window is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or humane option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from members of the public, pleading for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that alongside the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we request kindness and respect as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to humanely kill the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

The sanctuary achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to close until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.