27 Aug 2014

Funding boost for Otago sanctuary

9:44 pm on 27 August 2014

Dunedin's Orokonui Ecosanctuary is getting a big funding boost as part of a flurry of grants for Otago conservation partnerships from a Government conservation fund.

Orokonui Ecosanctuary

Otago's Orokonui Ecosanctuary will receive a large funding boost. Photo: RNZ / Ian Telfer

The South Island's flagship predator-free sanctuary is getting almost $280,000 for weed and pest control, and more species reintroductions, Associate Conservation minister Nicky Wagner announced today.

Other conservation projects in the region will also receive more funding.

Orokonui Ecosanctuary

Orokonui Ecosanctuary is the South Island's flagship sanctuary. Photo: RNZ / Ian Telfer

The Landscape Connections Trust will receive $52,000 to restore the bush connecting the sanctuary and its birdlife with the wider East Otago and North Dunedin areas.

Money will also go to the Otago Peninsula Biodiversity Group for possum control and the Herbert Heritage Group group to improve North Otago's Waianakarua River.