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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial financial backing,” the operator added.

In a later announcement, the sanctuary 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 choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the manager remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. Although the window is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The operator stated that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request compassion and decency as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to euthanise the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

The park gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary frequently ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.