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

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online post, the facility 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 euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the director explained.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The manager stated that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and respect as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to humanely kill the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

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

The park frequently ran into economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.