Design work to replace Zealandia's fence now underway

Listen to the full story by RNZ

25 years in, our fence is approaching the end of its life and showing signs of wear: rusting seams, leaning posts, and infrastructure that no longer fully meets the needs of the sanctuary or its wildlife (e.g., the thriving population of burrowing tuatara).

Design work is now underway for its replacement. Imagine if this were the first and last refurbishment we'll ever have to do. If Aotearoa New Zealand reaches its predator-free goals, one day native species like kiwi, tuatara and takahē could survive without this kind of barrier.

We’re incredibly fortunate to be working with GHD on the design. Their team of seven engineers, led by Technical Director Justine Jones, is tackling this project pro bono through GHD’s global social impact programme. While predator-proof fencing is well outside their usual scope of pipes and buildings, the team has been diving into the specifics of ecological fencing, consulting with suppliers and other sanctuaries to help make this next version more robust, accessible, and future-fit.

Thanks to RNZ and reporter Kate Green for visiting the sanctuary and sharing this story.

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