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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to put down two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online update, the facility clarified that its owner 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 property owner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial capital investment,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent announcement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from the community, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The operator noted that among the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received threatening and insulting comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request compassion and courtesy as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to put down the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.