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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” said 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 purchase of the land but substantial monetary input,” the director noted.

In a subsequent announcement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would review the plan to euthanise them.

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

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to put down the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment obligations.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

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

The sanctuary repeatedly experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to close until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.