Brook Waimarama Sanctuary Open Day

Sunday 16th March, 11:00am – 4:00pm

This year’s open day at the Brook Waimarama Sanctuary offers attractions for all the family, including a guest spot by ‘The Bug Man’, Ruud Kleinpaste and an opportunity to view one of our rarest kiwi, the rowi or little spotted kiwi.

General Manager Hudson Dodd says the annual open days at the Brook Sanctuary are a great way for locals and visitors to catch up on developments at Nelson’s ‘most exciting conservation project’.

“It’s a big year for us with the expected start of construction of the pest-proof fence, but even without that there’s been a tremendous amount of activitiy that we’ll be showcasing on March 16th,” he says. “We now have a fantastic track system built entirely by volunteers, and at the open day people will be able to choose between historical and ecologically themed interpretive walks on this network of tracks.”

Ruud Kleinpaste, well known for his television role as an expert on insects will speak at midday, then lead guided walks during the afternoon; while at 2:30pm DOC officers will offer an encounter with little spotted kiwi.

As well there will be the Sport Tasman activity trailer, children’s entertainer Fairy Lou, and live music by the Nelson Jazz Club and Dan Kendrick of Smokefreerockquest. Refreshments will be available, including a BBQ, coffee, ice cream and the launch of Brook Sanctuary sparkling lemonade by Bays Brewery.

Hudson says he’s expecting a good crowd and will be encouraging people to get involved in the Sanctuary.

“This outstanding community initiative offers people in our region a way to do something really meaningful for the future of New Zealand’s rare and precious biodiversity at the same time as making like-minded friends, creating a family landmark and getting fit working in the great out doors,” he says. “At the open day you can sign up as a member of the Brook Waimarama Sanctuary Trust, register as a volunteer, or sponsor a fence post to help us complete the pest-proof fence.”

Ride your bike (stands available), or take a free ride on the N-bus from the Whakatu Square bus depot on the special bus service running 11:00-4:00, sponsored by Nelson Coach Lines.

Gold coin donation admission to this zero-waste event. More information at www.brooksanctuary.org or on 546 2422

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