Inaugural Heritage Day takes flight at Karori Wildlife Sanctuary

New Zealand Historic Places Trust Information release
22 November 2006

The New Zealand Historic Places Trust has joined forces with Wellington's award-winning Karori Wildlife Sanctuary as it prepares to host its first ever Heritage Day event on 2 December.

The Sanctuary is internationally-renowned for its pioneering efforts to conserve New Zealand's native wildlife, but few people realise it is also home to a large number of historical features, such as the iconic Victorian gothic Valve Tower and the Morning Star Goldmine.

On Heritage Day the public will be invited to explore some of the most significant historical features of the lower valley with the NZ Historic Places Trust, and take part in traditional games on the heritage lawn.

"The Trust is absolutely delighted to be associated with Heritage Day, to promote the many historic features of the Sanctuary, and to work in partnership with the Council and sanctuary management, to further recognise the significance of this great asset to the city," says Trust central region area coordinator David Watt.

There will also be demonstrations of gold-panning, and the chance to explore the old goldmine, as well as guided tours of the Discovery Area with members of the Combined Rotary Clubs of Wellington, who have worked hard to develop this exciting new attraction.

Heritage Day will also mark the opening of the Karori Wildlife Sanctuary's new 10m-high Observation Tower - a replica of a structure used in the construction of the Upper Dam in the early 1900s. The tower, which is situated on the western escarpment, will give visitors a bird's eye view of the valley.

Having worked up an appetite unearthing the past, visitors will be able to enjoy a traditional Afternoon Tea by the lower lake, with homemade cakes and scones, old-fashioned lemonade and that Victorian staple - cucumber sandwiches!

Activities will begin at 11am. The Trust will be running guided talks from the heritage lawn every half hour. Period dress is optional!

Karori Wildlife Sanctuary is just five minutes' drive from the CBD, or a short bus ride from Courtney Place/Lambton Quay on the #3 bus. Call 04 920 9213 for further information or go to www.sanctuary.org.nz