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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are devastated,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial capital investment,” the director noted.

In a later update, the park verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the park would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The operator stated that among the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and abusive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request consideration and decency as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

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

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The park attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility often experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.