ZEALANDIA Announces New Research Centre

ZEALANDIA Announces New Research Centre

Wellington, NZ – Zealandia Ecosanctuary has today announced the establishment of a research centre to support its ongoing research and field work. The Zealandia Centre for People and Nature will focus on exploring how nature influences our society, including the economy, people’s health and wellbeing, and conservation outcomes.

“Zealandia has driven an incredible transformation in our nation’s capital—not only in our native biodiversity but also in our people,” said Zealandia Chief Executive Paul Atkins.

“People are learning to reconnect with New Zealand’s natural environment. Our children now have the chance to encounter unique species such as kākā, tīeke [saddleback] and toutouwai [North Island robin] in their own local green spaces.”

The Zealandia Centre for People and Nature will act as an umbrella for collaborative efforts in research, community outreach, and education. It will bring together more than 40 researchers who are already working with the sanctuary, generating knowledge to tackle conservation challenges affecting urban areas throughout the world.

“We know that spending time in nature can have a positive impact on our life. However, there are still many more questions to tackle,” said the sanctuary’s Conservation and Research Manager, Dr. Danielle Shanahan.

“What dose of nature is enough? What does this mean for our public health or our economy? How can we ensure conservation action in cities leads to great outcomes for biodiversity?”

The Centre for People and Nature will also be tackling the challenge of equipping New Zealand’s next generation with the tools, knowledge and experience they need to pursue a nature-rich future.

“It is through fostering our own connection with nature, and that of the next generation, that we can perhaps have our greatest impact,” said Dr Shanahan.

ENDS

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