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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

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

In a online update, the establishment explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent update, the park announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were declining. These actions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or compassionate option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The director stated that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and respect as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the choice to put down the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the official said. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The sanctuary achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to shut down until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.