28 April 2010

Auckland Zoo Lottery funding secures NZ visitor experience in time for the Rugby World Cup

Nikki Kaye, National MP for Auckland Central, is delighted that the Auckland Zoo Charitable Trust has been awarded lottery funding for the Te Wao Nui visitor experience project.

The grant from the Lottery Significant Projects Fund of $2,694,000 means that this exhibit will be able to open in time for the Rugby World Cup.

The many tourists that will be coming to Auckland will have the ability to see this world class facility.

This is the completion of an amazing effort by Auckland Zoo Charitable Trust, chaired by Penny Whiting MBE, who have been working for 3 years to secure funding to deliver this project.

Auckland City Council should also be acknowledged as they have made a significant financial contribution to this project.

Te Wao Nui will transform a third of Auckland Zoo to make it a modern zoo, a botanical garden, and a conservation park all rolled into one.

This visitor experience will be a permanent addition to Auckland Zoo so will be around for the enjoyment of New Zealanders and tourists for many years to come.

What makes this experience so special is that this exhibit is about showcasing our country which will include many New Zealand species such as the tuatara, kiwis, blue ducks, kereru and native plants.

It is also designed to give New Zealanders a greater awareness of national conservation projects and our cultural heritage.

As the local MP, I want to congratulate the Auckland Zoo Charitable Trust and all parties who have supported this project including the Lottery Significant Projects Fund for securing this project for Auckland.

-ENDS-