Wildbase Recovery Community Trust was pleased to host Conservation Minister Hon. Maggie Barry last week, as she toured the Victoria Esplanade construction site.

Joined by 45 sponsor representatives, The Minister was welcomed by Wildbase Recovery Community Trust Chair Roger Kennedy, Trust Ambassador Ian McKelvie and Rangitāne O Manawatū representative Wiremu Te Awe Awe.

The Minister spoke briefly to those in attendance and discussed the importance of communities collaborating together to support conservation efforts. She offered her congratulations to Central Energy Trust Wildbase Recovery on its progress and mentioned that the door may be open for further government help.

The group was given a short tour of the site by PNCC Project Lead Aaron Phillips, supported by Kyle Harrison, Kynoch Construction Project Manager.

Trust Chair Roger Kennedy said that the event was an excellent opportunity to take stock of the project’s progress, and thank those who had been involved in it. “So many people when they signed on to support or sponsor this were supporting an idea. It was fantastic to be able to welcome them to come and actually stand in the space, as the construction turns our plans into something real.”

“Central Energy Trust Wildbase Recovery will be an international icon in wildlife care, and we look forward to welcoming everyone when we open next year.”