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

The private wildlife park in the northern town 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 group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are heartbroken,” said the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but significant financial backing,” the operator added.

In a later statement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the property and providing for the lions. While the window is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or humane choice” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the park would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The manager stated that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department stated that the decision to euthanise the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The sanctuary achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.