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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media update, 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 “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable capital investment,” the director noted.

In a later statement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director stated.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or humane option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from the community, requesting a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would rethink the course of action to end their lives.

The manager stated that alongside the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and insulting comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request kindness and courtesy as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department indicated that the choice to euthanise the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park repeatedly experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.