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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to put down two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial monetary input,” the manager explained.

In a recent statement, the park verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator said.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that among the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to put down the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and security obligations.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.