Zion Wildlife Gardens update

3 February 2012

The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) confirms today that Patricia Busch remains the approved operator of Zion Wildlife Gardens and management of the park will continue as normal.

Director of Verification Services, Steve Gilbert, says MAF has a regulatory responsibility to ensure the requirements around containment and animal welfare are met.

“We have been in talks with all parties involved over the last few days to assess whether operator responsibilities can be met under the new park ownership.

“The discussions we’ve had have been positive and an agreement has been reached between the new park owners and Patricia Busch, with the full support of MAF. This agreement ensures all responsibilities and obligations can be met.

“The priority for all parties is to work together to ensure the secure containment and welfare of the animals held there,” Mr Gilbert says.

MAF will monitor the park daily as part of its oversight.

Media note: No further comment or interviews will be provided at this time.

Lisa Gibbison
Senior Communications Adviser
MAF
04 894 0432
029 894 0432