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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility explained that its owner 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 “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable monetary input,” the director explained.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from the community, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and decency as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to put down the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the official noted. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure obligations.”

The park attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park often experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to close until the facilities were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.