“DoC is working through next steps, and we will communicate any changes once a decision has been finalised.”
The sanctuary is home to 16 birds: four pāteke/brown teal, two kōwhiowhio/whio , four Antipodes Island kākāriki , and six South Island takahē, two of which are chicks.
Now, DoC, regional development agency Great South, site owners Southland Fish & Game and iwi Ōraka Aparima Rūnaka have turned to the public for input, encouraging people to submit their ideas on the future of the park.
The public is encouraged to submit ideas on how to revitalise the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary. Bobbi Brown, manager of regional strategy for Great South, said there had already been 26 submissions in two days.
“I’m really impressed with some of the cool ideas that people have. It’s heartening to see people thinking beyond the square.
“It’s really good to see that the process is allowing people to be involved and have a say.”
The high number of submissions in such a short period showed that people didn’t want to lose the sanctuary, she said.
“It’s about keeping something that’s so valuable to people, but at the same time, looking into the future and how we can do it better.”
Whio are among the protected birds at Te Anau Bird Sanctuary. Anyone with feedback has been asked to share their thoughts through the feedback form on Great South’s website .
Submissions can be made until August 3.
