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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are devastated,” stated the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but significant capital investment,” the director explained.

In a subsequent statement, the sanctuary announced 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 incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The manager stated that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to euthanise the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are confident that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The facility attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary frequently experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.