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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to put down two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media update, the facility indicated 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 euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are heartbroken,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a later update, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would review the plan to euthanise them.

The director stated that among the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request kindness and decency as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the choice to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official stated that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done properly,” the official stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary often ran into economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.