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

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

In a online post, the establishment clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are heartbroken,” commented the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial financial backing,” the director explained.

In a subsequent statement, the sanctuary confirmed 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 declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the park would review the plan to end their lives.

The director stated that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and courtesy as we manage this devastating situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department stated that the choice to euthanise the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A deputy director commented that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to confirm this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and security requirements.”

The park gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.