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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online update, the establishment explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are devastated,” said the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the manager added.

In a later statement, the facility 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 incurable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the manager said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A several interested parties have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. While the window is tight 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 “viable or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from the community, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The manager mentioned that amid the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and abusive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be performed humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and security requirements.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility often experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to shut down until the habitats were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.