Orokonui Ecosanctuary

Being able to keep general rates from rising and reduce the Dunedin transport rate while still being able to support new walking track projects deserves a slap on the back for the Otago Regional Council, chairman Stephen Cairns says.

Vandalism of Orokonui Ecosanctuary's predator-proof fence has left the enclosure vulnerable to pests on two occasions.

Groups seeking funding from the Otago Regional Council have been reminded of its policy to consider "tangible" projects rather than operational expenditure.

In the second week of April, 25 South Island robins from Douglas fir plantations on the flanks of the Silverpeaks were liberated at the Orokonui Ecosanctuary - another milestone for the project, as Neville Peat reports.

South Island robins, the "stars of avian entertainment", have been released into Orokonui Ecosanctuary.

Orokonui Ecosanctuary in Dunedin and the Burwood Bush Takahe Rearing Unit, near Te Anau, may be added to the list of public conservation land protected from mining.

Orokonui Ecosanctuary staff are asking for suggestions for names for two kaka chicks hatched from the same mother at this season.

Up to 25 South Island robins will be translocated from commercial forest plantations in Flagstaff and the Silver Peaks to Orokonui Ecosanctuary later this week.

One year after the jewelled geckos were released at Orokonui Ecosanctuary, their survival and breeding is encouraging, general manager Chris Baillie says.

Orokonui Ecosanctuary staff hope to meet demand from visitors and allow people to take self-guided tours by the end of February.