Brook Waimarama Sanctuary

Based on the Karori model a local trust is creating a mainland island sanctuary in an old water reserve with the aid of a pest proof fence. Completed in Autumn 2016, the fence is more than 2 metres high and 14.5 kilometres-long. It has taken more than 7000 fence posts spaced at 2-metre intervals to provide a firm attachment for the tightly woven mesh which has a gap size of just 5 by 25 millimetres, “fine enough to keep out even a young mouse.” A wide skirt that fans out from the base of the fence is designed to prevent animal intruders digging their way underneath, while a slippery metal hood along the top of the fence will foil even the most determined climber. Over 250 species of plants have been recorded and the bird-life includes rarer species such as NZ falcon, yellow-crowned parakeets, weka and robins. A fine entrance building has been constructed as the gateway to the sanctuary in this special part of Nelson. There is a popular camp-ground next door. The tour link below takes visitors to the Sanctuary and to Mount Richmond Forest Park.

Reservoir Birds 1.2 by Brad Novak