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

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, 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 euthanised “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant capital investment,” the manager added.

In a recent update, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager said.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. Although the window is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or compassionate alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to put them down.

The manager mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered hostile and abusive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and respect as we manage this tragic situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the choice to euthanise the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to meet its animal care and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show 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 sanctuary repeatedly ran into economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.