Council confirms continued support for aviary

Published on 16 September 2025

Whanganui District Council’s elected representatives have voted to continue funding core operations at the Rotokawau Virginia Lake aviary, securing the future of the facility for locals and visitors.

Whanganui District Council chief executive, David Langford, says the decision follows more than a year of the council working with the Friends of the Aviary Trust, which had sought to take over ownership and operation of the aviary.

“The council supported this as a way of trying a new partnership model for the aviary. While the Trust has made real progress in improving animal care practices, they have faced challenges, particularly around fundraising in the current economic climate.

“In light of this and given the council’s strong financial position with the lowest rates rise in the country for the 2025/26 year and a significant operating surplus of around $1.9 million, the council will continue to fund the aviary’s core operations to make sure it remains open to everyone.”

He says partnering with the Trust reduces the need for paid aviary staff so operating costs are lower than previously indicated, at around $60,000 per year. Funding will come from the council’s operating surplus this year and will be built into future budgets.

Langford says The Friends of the Aviary Trust has shown real passion and commitment and the council and the Trust have worked together to make important improvements to the welfare of the birds, including enrichment activities and improved feeding practices, and material concerns raised in a 2023 zoological audit have been addressed.

He says the partnership will continue, but with a clearer split in responsibilities.

“The council will cover the aviary’s day-to-day operating costs, while the Friends of the Aviary Trust will focus on fundraising for facility and wildlife conservation and community education initiatives,” Langford says.

“This way we’re keeping the aviary open in a sustainable way that gives the community an exciting role in shaping its future.”