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

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online post, the facility explained that its owner 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 challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable capital investment,” the manager noted.

In a later announcement, the sanctuary 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 declining. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or compassionate alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The manager mentioned that among the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and offensive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request kindness and respect as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security obligations.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.