Closure Avian Rescue Otago vet bill

💔 Closure Announcement: Avian Rescue Otago

After more than four years of providing emergency and critical care to our native birds, advocating for their welfare, supporting vets, nurses, and rehabilitators, and saving countless lives, it’s with a heavy heart that I announce the permanent closure of Avian Rescue Otago.

This decision was not made lightly. It follows the issue of a new DOC permit that restricts us to holding and stabilising birds for only 48 hours before transfer to another facility. Rehabilitation on-site is no longer permitted, leaving us unable to continue our work despite meeting all required standards.

For four years, we have operated entirely voluntarily, with no government funding or grants, covering all veterinary expenses ourselves. Unfortunately, this has left us with a significant vet bill, and we are asking for a helping hand to settle it.

It has been an absolute privilege to work with our wildlife, witness their recovery, and develop improved care protocols. While this closure is heartbreaking, we are deeply grateful to everyone who has supported, donated, and believed in what we do.

The nursery will continue to operate and will now become our main focus moving forward.

Thank you for being part of our journey. 🕊️

— Avian Rescue Otago