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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media announcement, the facility indicated 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 put down “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are devastated,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial capital investment,” the director added.

In a subsequent statement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the director said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or compassionate option” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the decision to end their lives.

The manager stated that alongside the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the choice to put down the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its animal care and security requirements.”

The facility attained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary repeatedly encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.