ONE of Wanganui's icons is about to turn 100.
Bushy Park ? one of New Zealand's most important native bird sanctuaries ? is turning 100 and friends of the park are coming from all over the country to celebrate the milestone on October 27 and 28.
Chairman of Bushy Park's Executive Committee,
Allan Anderson, said the celebrations would begin on the Friday night with a banquet.
The "Bug Man" Ruud Kleinpaste will be one of the speakers. Mr Kleinpaste will visit Wanganui High School and Springvale Garden Centre while he is in the city.
"It's an opportunity for people to celebrate Bushy Park," Mr Anderson said.
An open day will be held on October 28 for people to walk the tracks at Bushy Park and see the birds.
There will also be an AGM that Mr Anderson promises will be the shortest ever.
"It's a proud moment for us ? a lot of people, all volunteers, have contributed to Bushy Park over the years."
He has had a sign made to honour the people who have helped make Bushy Park what it is and the sign now boasts over 400 names.
"There will definitely be some stories swapped," he said. Wanganui writer and historian Penny Robinson has put together a book that traces the history of Bushy Park to mark the occasion.
Tickets to the banquet are available at the Information centre, Markhams and the BNZ, or by phoning 06 342 1722 or 06 348 7771.
