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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

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

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but significant capital investment,” the operator explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A several interested parties have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and keep hope alive.”

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

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and insulting comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request compassion and decency as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

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

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security obligations.”

The facility attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility often ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the facility to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.