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

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past 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 euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial capital investment,” the director noted.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from the community, requesting a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The operator noted that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and insulting comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and courtesy as we handle this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the determination to humanely kill the lions lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility often experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to close until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.