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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to euthanise two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial capital investment,” the director noted.

In a recent statement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the park would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The director noted that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and offensive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to euthanise the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to close until the habitats were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.