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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to humanely kill 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 town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media post, the facility clarified that its owner 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 deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but significant financial backing,” the manager explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the director remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would review the decision to put them down.

The operator noted that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and abusive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the choice to euthanise the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to meet its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park often encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency instructed the establishment to shut down until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.