Wildbase move is imminent
‘‘Wildbase Recovery will be New Zealand’s only dedicated native wildlife recovery facility.’’ Wildbase Recovery Community Trust chairman Roger Kennedy
Old buildings are getting removed to make way for the new Wildbase Recovery centre in Palmerston North.
The education centre at the Victoria Esplanade will be shifted at the end of February, after the park’s open day, and other facilities will be demolished.
Wildbase Recovery will be New Zealand’s only dedicated native wildlife rehab centre, with a hospital and purpose-built physiotherapy ward.
Wildbase Recovery Community Trust chairman Roger Kennedy said visitors will be able to watch the vets in action and learn about each bird and its injuries.
‘‘Massey University’s veterinary wildlife specialists will be on site to rehabilitate ill or injured birds before they’re released back into the wild.
‘‘They’ll present with injuries and illnesses that are too complicated to be treated elsewhere in New Zealand.’’
The animals will return to the wild after three to six weeks of care, Kennedy said.
‘‘It’s anticipated that around 40 per cent of the patients will be on the DOC (Department of Conservation) list of rare and endangered species.’’
To kickstart the construction process, old services have been disconnected and a company will soon be selected to demolish unused staff facilities, old storage buildings and a glasshouse.
Beca will manage the construction work. Its senior project manager, Saiful Islam, worked with Auckland Zoo on similar projects, Kennedy said.
Once the tender for construction is awarded, the Wildbase trust will announce a start date.
‘‘Palmerston North City Council is looking to have the tender for construction out to the market in three to four weeks’ time.’’
DOC, which is providing $200,000 funding, has been involved in the project from the planning phase.
Manawatu supervisor Nicole Dillon said the recovery centre would be an incredible opportunity for people to learn about New Zealand’s most endangered native species.
‘‘The display aviaries have been designed to allow public viewing of recuperating wildlife in a natural habitat, while protecting the wildlife from public interaction.’’