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

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

In a online post, the facility clarified that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are devastated,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable monetary input,” the manager explained.

In a later announcement, the park verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“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 profound consideration and deliberation,” the director said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to explore this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or compassionate choice” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The manager mentioned that amid the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received threatening and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we request consideration and courtesy as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

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

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are confident that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

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

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

The facility often ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the establishment to close until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.