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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment explained 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 euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are heartbroken,” said the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial capital investment,” the operator explained.

In a recent statement, the park verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with 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 consideration,” the director said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would review the course of action to end their lives.

The director mentioned that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and offensive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we handle this tragic situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the decision to put down the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and security requirements.”

The park attained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary frequently ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to close until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.