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

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

In a online post, the establishment indicated 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 put down “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial capital investment,” the manager noted.

In a subsequent announcement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in acquiring the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would rethink the course of action to put them down.

The manager noted that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and respect as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the decision to put down the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director commented that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.