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

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment clarified that its proprietor 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 challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are devastated,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the manager explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were flooded with comments from the community, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would review the plan to end their lives.

The director noted that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and abusive messages.

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

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to humanely kill the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the official said. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary frequently encountered economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to cease operations until the habitats were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.