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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online update, the facility clarified that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” stated the facility’s manager.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but significant capital investment,” the operator explained.

In a recent announcement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or humane option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would review the decision to end their lives.

The manager noted that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to euthanise the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility achieved a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

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

The sanctuary frequently encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.