Government steps in over island nature haven

The Glenfern Sanctuary.

Fears after wildlife sanctuary founded by champion sailor put up for private sale.

The future of a historic sanctuary on Auckland's doorstep that has been up for private sale looks to have been secured after the Government stepped in to boost a joint bid.

Glenfern Sanctuary is on Great Barrier Island's Kotuku Peninsula and inside a rodent-proof fence.

It has become a haven for native animals including the black petrel, pateke (brown teal), North Island robin, kaka and chevron skink.

Conservationists have hailed the news that the Government will put up money to ensure the 80ha property is not sold to a bidder unwilling to retain the sanctuary.

World champion sailor Tony Bouzaid established the Glenfern Sanctuary, which includes 114-year-old Fitzroy House, in Fitzroy Harbour.

Mr Bouzaid died in October 2011 after overseeing the planting of 15,000 trees and building a 2km fence to protect endangered wildlife on his and neighbouring properties on the Kotuku Peninsula.

The Kotuku Peninsula Trust was formed to manage the 260ha of the peninsula inside the pest fence and pay for its running costs.

But there were concerns when Mr Bouzaid's family put the waterfront property up for sale through Sothebys International Realty for $3.35 million.

After listing the property with Sotheby's, the Bouzaid family decided to work further with local organisations to try to bring it into public ownership.

Conservation Minister Maggie Barry yesterday said the Government would put a significant amount of money towards a consortium including the Auckland Council and Great Barrier Local Board that was looking to purchase Glenfern.

Glenfern Sanctuary

• 80ha on Great Barrier Island with 300-year-old kauri, walking tracks and historic Fitzroy House, built in 1901.

• Sits behind a pest-proof fence that encloses Department of Conservation land and other properties on Kotuku Peninsula.

• Has been up for private sale, but is now likely to be bought by a consortium including the Government, Auckland Council and Great Barrier Local Board.