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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other 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 announcement, the establishment clarified that its proprietor 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 difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are devastated,” said the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial financial backing,” the director added.

In a recent statement, the park announced 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 worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager said.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and providing for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The manager stated that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and insulting comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to humanely kill the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility repeatedly experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the park to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.