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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

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

In a online update, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable capital investment,” the director noted.

In a later statement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled 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 deliberation,” the operator remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from the community, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The operator stated that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the decision to put down the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that humane killing had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to meet its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

The park gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.