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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but significant capital investment,” the director explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

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

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

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or compassionate alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator stated that amid the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the determination to put down the lions was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary often encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to shut down until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.