Christchurch is the only major urban centre in the country without an ecosanctuary!
The Waitākiri EcoSanctuary Trust aims to change that by transforming a section of Ōtautahi Christchurch's 'red-zoned' Ōtākaro Avon River Corridor into a thriving habitat. Here, native flora and fauna will flourish — safe from introduced predators — in what will become a powerful anchor for ecological restoration citywide.
Waitākiri EcoSanctury Trust's Vision
The Waitākiri EcoSanctuary will be the first large-scale, predator-proof ecosanctuary in Canterbury, and aims to fill a void in our national biodiversity recovery efforts. This unique initiative biolds on the legacy of the Travis Wetland Nature Heritage Park, and together they will extend the number of native species that can live and be seen within the city limits.
Some of the species we look forward to regrowing the population and presence of in Ōtautahi Christchurch:
Weka
Miromiro/
Tomtit
Toutouwai/
Robin
Takahē
Kakariki
Kōwhai
Tītitipounamu/
Rifleman
Tūi
Tīeke/
Saddleback
Mokomoko/
Gecko
Houhere/
Lacebark
Harakeke/
Flax
The sanctuary will also add high ground for podocarp forest, create flood refuges, and connect a network of regeneration sites throughout the red zone and beyond.
Help Make This a Reality!
The Waitākiri EcoSanctuary is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for Ōtautahi Christchurch. Together, we can create a space where native wildlife returns, tamariki/children learn, and people of all ages can connect with the natural world — right here in the heart of the city.
Donations
Donations play a vital role in making the Waitākiri Ecosanctuary possible. Every contribution will help restore native habitats, protect endangered species, and support ongoing conservation work within this project. To show your support, hit the button below to email us to organise your donation.
