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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility explained 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 euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the director noted.

In a later update, the park announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

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

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from the community, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to put down the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the official noted. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary frequently ran into economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.