PHOTO: Zealandia, Wellington. KLOOK
The Greater Wellington Regional Council is seeking government funding for the development of a bird “super sanctuary” in Lower Hutt. The proposed Puketaha fenced eco-sanctuary, situated on 3000 hectares of native bush in Wainuiomata, aims to enhance habitat conditions and shift the threat status of endangered species such as kākāpo, rowi kiwi, and hihi.
A recent feasibility study has demonstrated that once the area is predator-fenced and pests are eliminated, it could offer sufficient habitat for these threatened species. Additionally, the sanctuary’s positive impact on biodiversity recovery could extend to approximately 40,000 hectares of the Remutaka Range.
The study estimates a funding requirement of around $42 million over a 10-year period. This funding would cover activities such as obtaining resource consents, constructing the fence and associated infrastructure, pest eradication, and introducing native birds. The Regional Council is now seeking new funding to support the completion of detailed designs and resource consents, involving collaboration with the Department of Conservation, Regional Council, and Taranaki Whanui.
Notably, the proposed sanctuary has been hailed as a significant conservation effort by Jim Lynch, the founder of Zealandia. He emphasized its potential as the largest sanctuary in New Zealand, situated amidst a vast forested area of approximately 50,000 hectares. Lynch believes that the facility could serve as a critical habitat for various threatened species, contributing to establishing substantial and permanent populations.
The Council chair, Daran Ponter, revealed that the proposal was presented to the previous government, receiving initial interest. However, election cycles delayed further consideration. Ponter expressed the bipartisan nature of the proposal and intends to engage with the new Conservation Minister to garner support. The current Conservation Minister, Tama Potaka, acknowledged the proposal, stating that he will consider it with advice from the Department of Conservation, which has shown initial support. However, he also highlighted the government’s numerous urgent priorities.
SOURCE: RNZ