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

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment indicated that its owner 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 difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are heartbroken,” commented the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but significant financial backing,” the director explained.

In a recent statement, the facility announced 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 incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The operator stated that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request compassion and courtesy as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to put down the big cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be performed humanely, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

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

The park frequently ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to shut down until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.