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

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online post, the facility clarified that its proprietor had put the property 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 employees and I are heartbroken,” said the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable capital investment,” the director noted.

In a later update, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the facility and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate choice” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the park would rethink the course of action to end their lives.

The operator mentioned that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and insulting comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we ask for kindness and respect as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to humanely kill the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park frequently ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.