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

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

In a online post, the establishment explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable capital investment,” the manager explained.

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

“We had to part with 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 manager stated.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

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

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed desire that the park would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The manager mentioned that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we handle this tragic situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

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

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be on location to ensure this is done properly,” the official said. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal care and security obligations.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility often ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to close until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.