Te Anau bird sanctuary saved by two businessmen

Te Punanga Manu has been managed by the Department of Conservation and runs a breeding programmes for rare and endangered birds. Last year, DOC said it was stepping back from the park, relocating some species and making changes to guided tours. It cited substantial investment needed to infrastructure, including $100,000 for the takahe enclosure. An alternative management and funding arrangment was sought, with a public consultation drawing 90 submissions. Peter Egerton and Steve Lockwood, operators of Fiordland's Cruise Milford have now entered into an arrangement with DOC and mana whenua Oraka Aparima Runaka to develop the park. Councillor Sarah Greany spoke to Lisa Owen.