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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media post, the facility indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the manager added.

In a subsequent announcement, the facility announced 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 worsening. These actions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the manager said.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would review the course of action to put them down.

The director stated that amid the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to put down the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility repeatedly ran into economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.