Central Energy Trust Wildbase Recovery has celebrated another milestone, with newly installed exterior walls capturing the public’s attention at the Victoria Esplanade construction site in Palmerston North.

The large concrete exterior wall panels have been brought to life by Rangitāne artist James Molnar, incorporating a 3D design that wraps around the building, representing the way the project has brought together key groups in the Manawatū.

“The designs were created to tell part of the story of the project’s origin,” says Molnar. “The huia bird, which used to be found in this area, is represented throughout alongside the Tararua ranges and the Manawatū River. The male and female birds worked together to live, and I wanted to use that analogy to show how when iwi and local Council work together – great things happen.”

Wildbase Recovery Community Trust Chair Roger Kennedy says the panels are the result of the generosity of sponsors, Silvester Clark Consulting Engineers and Higgins Concrete.

“Silvester Clark have provided all design and documentation for the building structures free of charge to the Trust, while Higgins Concrete has supplied the concrete for the wall panels. When you start to see this kind of community support take shape in the real world, it’s really humbling.”

John Silvester, Silvester Clark Principal says that it is the long term benefits that drew the firm to the project.

“Our Palmerston North office of Silvester Clark Consulting Engineers is proud to be part of the construction team working to deliver this facility, not just because it will aid in the recovery of sick and injured animals, but because of the educational value this centre will provide to the young people in our region for so many years.”

Higgins Concrete Manawatū – Wairarapa Regional Manager Aaron Currie, said that the project lined up well with the Higgins family’s values.

“The Higgins family have always been a supporter of local projects, so being part of Central Energy Trust Wildbase Recovery made perfect sense. We’re proud to be a part of what will become a local icon, and set the bar for conservation across the world.”

Wildbase Recovery Community Trust is still fundraising for the project’s ongoing operational costs. Public donations can be made via the Wildbase Recovery Community Trust Givealittle page, www.givealittle.co.nz/org/wildbaserecovery. Central Energy Trust Wildbase Recovery is expected to open in mid- 2018.

Central Energy Trust Wildbase Recovery will be owned by Palmerston North City Council and co-managed by Massey University’s Veterinary School, working alongside DOC, local iwi, Rotary, and Lions.