This project aims to transform the circled white area of red-zoned land into a protected ecosanctuary where native wildlife can breed without fear of predation. It will form the beating heart of a wide network of biodiverse habitats throughout the river corridor and beyond.

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In time, the ecosanctuary will be protected by a predator-proof fence, and will interact with a constellation of regeneration areas throughout the red zone which, although unfenced, will be the focus of intensive pest control.

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This will be the first large-scale, predator-proof ecosanctuary in Canterbury, and aims to fill a void in our national biodiversity recovery efforts. It will sit alongside Ōruapaeroa-Travis Wetland Reserve and complement this with higher, drier land, giving an opportunity to plant trees. Together they will extend the number of native species that can live and be seen within the city limits.

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This is a long-term project, and an opportunity to experiment with innovative planting techniques, and design environments that serve many purposes - providing mahinga kai (food gathering), places for recreation, and resilience against hazards like flooding. Ongoing free access is a key goal.