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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining 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 online update, the establishment explained that its proprietor 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 challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are devastated,” commented the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable capital investment,” the operator added.

In a later announcement, the sanctuary 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 not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the director stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or humane choice” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from the community, requesting a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed desire that the facility would rethink the decision to put them down.

The director noted that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the choice to put down the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

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

“An compliance official will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary repeatedly encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.