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

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

In a social media post, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are heartbroken,” commented the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable monetary input,” the operator explained.

In a subsequent announcement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the manager stated.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The manager stated that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive comments.

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

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to euthanise the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The facility gained minor fame 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 staff member was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly ran into economic issues and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.