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A financially troubled 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 undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media announcement, the facility explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but significant capital investment,” the director noted.

In a subsequent update, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director stated.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. While the window is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the course of action to end their lives.

The director mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the choice to euthanise the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done properly,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park frequently encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.