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

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

In a social media update, the facility explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are devastated,” said the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant monetary input,” the director added.

In a recent announcement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager said.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by responses from the community, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would review the decision to end their lives.

The operator noted that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to euthanise the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be onsite to confirm this is done properly,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary often encountered financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.