Cornwall Park aviary upgrade complete

Cornwall Park’s aviary upgrade is complete with its residents enjoying having more space and extra features to interact with.

Visitors to the facility will now be able to see the birds in a much-enhanced habitat, including new plantings, enclosures with more space for free flight, and more nesting boxes that encourage breeding.  Misting sprays have been installed that will help keep the birds cool in summer.

In addition, new concrete has been laid throughout, and the netting replaced around the entire structure improving views into the enclosures.

There’s new drainage, water features and bird feeders, and a new “beach” for the red-eared slider turtles to provide a more natural egg laying area.  Repairs to the structure following tree damage sustained during Cyclone Gabrielle have also been completed.

The budgies and red-rumped parrots have been moved into the enclosures previously occupied by the corella and cockatoo, who were given new homes in 2020.

The facility has been adorned with a colourful mural by local artist Brandon Blair of Crimson Flower and new signage has been installed.

New shade cover will be added in due course, to replace the pergola that was destroyed in Cyclone Gabrielle, together with new seats. 

The project has been guided by Massey University’s Pauline Njiman and Martin Steer who have provided expert advice on how to create an environment that’s best for the health and wellbeing of its inhabitants.

Hastings mayor Sandra Hazlehurst said that in March 2019, Hastings District Council consulted with the community about the future of the aviary as part of a wider Reserve Management Plan consultation on Cornwall Park, and got a strong response that people wanted it retained, but with an enhanced environment for the birds.

“We’re very happy to have this work now completed and to have created a better environment for the birds and turtles.

“The aviary has long been a popular destination within our wonderful Cornwall Park and it’s exciting to have the new improved space up and running for local and visiting families to enjoy.”

Local firm Topline Contracting carried out the work on the upgrade, with Habitat Biodiversity & Pest Management Ltd supplying plants.  PAK’nSAVE also regularly provide fresh fruit and vegetables for the birds to enjoy.

13 June 2023

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