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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to humanely kill 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 city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are devastated,” stated the facility’s manager.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the manager explained.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or humane option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would review the plan to end their lives.

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

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and respect as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department stated that the decision to put down the lions was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its wildlife protection and containment obligations.”

The park attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to close until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.