Lion Man may leave NZ

"Lion Man" Craig Busch might consider leaving New Zealand if he fails to regain control of Zion Wildlife Gardens.

The star of The Lion Man, which has a global audience, is battling his mother Patricia for the Northland big cats' park.

Asked if he would move overseas if he lost the dispute, Mr Busch, who has a global following, said: "You can never say never, but hopefully, it won't come to that."

He told the Sunday News he was "overwhelmed" by the support he had received from fans around the world as he continued his legal wrangle.

More than 20,000 people had signed up to his Facebook page and fans had organised fundraising fairs and sponsored walks.

Busch said he was desperately missing his "family" - Zion's lions and tigers which he had raised from cubs.

"These cats are both my life's work and my life," he said.

Patricia Busch moved into Zion in July 2006. She raised a loan to repay Craig's company and personal debt, and in return was given power of attorney and sole directorship until he could repay her.

But their relationship soured and she no longer wanted her son's services at the wildlife park.

The matter is before the courts and the Employment Relations Authority.

Patricia is seeking the return of company property and claiming for alleged loss of income and legal costs.

Busch is counterclaiming, wanting the return of his job and control of Zion.

Patricia Busch would not comment.

- NZPA