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

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online post, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are heartbroken,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant monetary input,” the director noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the course of action to put them down.

The manager mentioned that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park frequently experienced economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to close until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.