Guiding

It was another stunning day guiding in Zealandia today. My group were mainly Americans with a scattering of people from Hong Kong. Every tour is different and this group was interested in how the community of Wellington managed to obtain such a asset to its city. I told the story of how the area became decommissioned as a water supply as it was based in a fault line above the city. Once the idea from Jim Lynch to turn it into a bird sanctuary became popular among some, it took a huge amount of work by a dedicated group to bring the city on board.
As this was to be an 'urban island' it would also always be vulnerable to damage if enemies were created. Therefore a policy of 'make no enemies' was created. For example mountain bikers were not happy that they were to be excluded from a place where they were used to playing. The solution was to create a mountain bike and walking path around the perimeter of the fence so this group could still feel included. This group of people also took on board that perhaps they should not only be users of the environment but protectors as well. They went on to  create a new mountain bike park on nearby Makara Mountain, planting native trees and created an environment suitable for bikers and birds alike. The solutions ended up as a win/win situation for everybody.
Some home owners next to the reserve were not keen on a great big ugly fence on their boundary. Again, their concerns were taken on board and the fence was moderated to be as eye pleasing as possible. No electrical fencing or wires were used thus avoiding a 'prison' look to the fence. Once the Sanctuary was up and running, home owners discovered their properties had gone up in value as potential home owners felt that living next to Zealandia would be a bonus. More happy people!
A few people needed to prove they could still go over the fence and enter the sanctuary if they felt like it. This was tolerated and slowly the culture changed till it is now a very rare event.
Paying to experience New Zealand's birds and bush is still a hurdle for many people. It can be too expensive for families who just want a one off visit and there is a lot to see in Wellington for free. Becoming a member is the best way to enjoy Zealandia and I know of many people who give a membership to young families as a wonderful lasting Christmas present. As I point out to people membership for a year is the same cost as a couple of restaurant dinners and the joy lasts a lot longer!

Most overseas tourists are in awe at what we have achieved with our far sighted thinking. For them their one and a half hour tour is never enough. One of the things they often comment on is the freshness of the air - they immediately feel reinvigorated and relaxed at the same time. They love Zealandia's quiet space too. I suppose most come from big cities and find air quality and quiet spaces something to cherish. We Kiwis just take it for granted!