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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial monetary input,” the director explained.

In a recent announcement, the park 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 not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager said.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”

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

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from the community, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The manager stated that among the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to euthanise the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be carried out ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done properly,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security requirements.”

The facility gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.