Monks called in to calm Lion park

by Andr? Hueber
Buddhist monks have blessed Whangarei's world-famous Zion Wildlife Gardens in an attempt to bring peace to the creatures that live and work there.
Kaari Schlebach, co-director of Whangarei's Jam Tse Dhargyey Ling Buddhist centre said the disharmony between the mother-and-son team behind the park was common knowledge, and most people were saddened and concerned for all involved.
Zion Wildlife Gardens is currently the subject of a court battle between TV personality and "Lionman" Craig Busch and his mother Patricia Busch. The two are battling for control of the park, with the matter due to be settled in court.
The monks' visit yesterday was aimed at bringing peace to the warring factions.
"The monks were seen as special by the park's owners and were invited to come and bless the park. Hopefully there will be some change," Ms Schlebach said.
A visiting monk, Tibetan Master Geshe Sonam Rinchen who is on holiday in Whangarei from his home in India, gave a blessing and handed over gifts of saffron water, coloured sand and prayer flags.
The monks were taken on a tour of the park and served morning tea before being given the opportunity to hang out with the lions inside their cage.
A vial of blessed saffron water was handed to the park's owner, Patricia Busch so she could "spread it around the land," Ms Schlebach said.
The monks also brought the remains of a large coloured sand painting known as a "mandala" for the occasion. It originally showed an intricate image of a mansion with animals and gardens.
"Each grain of sand is seen as a seed of compassion. When the painting was dissolved the sand was gifted to the water to spread through the land, but a small amount was given to Patricia Busch for the benefit of all the beings that live and work at the park," Ms Schlebach said.
In the past year, two employees have been attacked by big cats at the park which is home to more than 40 lions and tigers.
Scottish teenager Lisa Baxter was left scarred for life when Timba, an African white lion, sunk his teeth into both her hands.
Last month handler Demetri Price was hospitalised after being bitten on the knee by a white tiger he was trying to move between two enclosures.
Mr Busch and Ms Baxter were both criticised by a Department of Labour Occupational Safety and Health investigation.
Ms Baxter was given a ticking off for putting her hands through a hole in the fence designed for television cameras, while Mr Busch failed to notify the authorities of the incident.
In an apparent reference to negativity surrounding the park, Geshe Sonam Rinchen told assembled guests yesterday: "When someone says or does something to harm you, at all times practise patience. It's only by practising patience that harmony can be achieved."
Mrs Busch was asked to comment on yesterday's visit but had not done so by edition time.