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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online 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 “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are devastated,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but significant capital investment,” the operator added.

In a recent statement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the director remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

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

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that alongside the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and respect as we navigate this devastating predicament.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

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

A high-ranking officer explained that humane killing had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the official stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to shut down until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.