Island sanctuary visit dream come true for school kids

Youngsters visit the birds and bugs of Tiritiri Matangi. Photo / Supplied

Learning about nature and the animals and birds native to New Zealand are things all children do at school.

But few youngsters are lucky enough to see animals in their natural habitats.

The Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi Inc is working to give as many kids as possible the chance to see those environments. It is one of a dozen groups from around the country who will receive $10,000 from Auckland Airport's 12 Days of Christmas initiative.

The non-profit group conducts tours for children visiting Tiritiri Matangi Island, in the Hauraki Gulf.

Set up three years ago, the Growing Minds programme helps low-decile schools get students to the island.

Guiding and shop manager Mary-Ann Rowland said education was a huge part of their conservation work.

Up to 500 pupils and high school students from around Auckland and the Far North will benefit from the airport's grant.

Rowland said the all-day trip was a big highlight for youngsters, as well as their parents. "We had one man who had tears in his eyes during one of our tours - he had never seen anything like it.

Some of the kids have never been to the bush or the ferry or even on a bus. They're so excited.

"They're just going: 'Wow!'. To see a kereru flying right above their heads is incredible for them. They can't believe their eyes."

Auckland Airport spokeswoman Anna Cassels-Brown said visiting the sanctuary was one of the great things about growing up in New Zealand. "We're delighted this gift will help students experience everything Tiritiri Matangi has to offer."

For more info visit: www.tiritirimatangi.org.nz

Auckland Airport is giving away $120,000 to Kiwi charities as part of its 12 Days of Christmas initiative. The Herald on Sunday and Herald will profile each recipient.</strong>