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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online post, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are devastated,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the operator explained.

In a recent announcement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were declining. These actions 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 euthanised.

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is short and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the park would review the decision to euthanise them.

The operator noted that among the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to threatening and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the choice to humanely kill the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The park attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to shut down until the habitats were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.