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

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media update, 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 put down “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial capital investment,” the director added.

In a subsequent statement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the director remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the park would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The operator noted that among the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and decency as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to humanely kill the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park often ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the facility to shut down until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.