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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media update, the facility indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable capital investment,” the director added.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A few individuals have shown interest in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The operator noted that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to threatening and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and respect as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the determination to euthanise the lions was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be performed humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the official said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to meet its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park frequently encountered economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to close until the enclosures were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.