A project launched by a Queenstown tourism heavyweight during Covid’s come full circle, with the company now committing $300,000 to secure its future.
AJ Hackett Bungy NZ launched the Workforce Alliance during the pandemic, deploying tourism workers into new and existing community projects, including the Southern Lakes Sanctuary (SLS), established in 2021.
Focused on predator control to protect native species and increase biodiversity in the Southern Lakes, SLS works with six conservation
organisations across the area, bringing the work of 90 volunteer groups, landowners, businesses and Department of Conservation together.
It uses cutting-edge conservation technology, including DNA monitoring, smart traps and AI species recognition.
AJ Hackett Bungy NZ last Wednesday night announced it would deliver the first of three, annual $100,000 contributions to SLS’ coffers next July.
Its CEO David Mitchell says the company decided to support SLS after seeing it was producing ‘‘real, tangible results in local conservation’’.
‘‘We’ve been privileged in enabling support for [SLS] by providing the operational horsepower for their conservation project.
‘‘We believe in the benefits these dedicated people are providing to local conservation and we would like to see them continue.’’
SLS project director Paul Kavanagh says the announcement kicks off its national fundraising mission, requiring urgent funding to sustain its
work.
‘‘Since we began in late 2021, the trapping network across our region has increased by 50% and we are delighted to know that we are making a genuine difference for our wonderful landscapes and native wildlife.
‘‘But we need to keep going, and contributions from businesses and organisations like AJ Hackett Bungy NZ can enable us to do that.’’
Mitchell’s hoping other Kiwi companies follow its lead — particularly those involved in tourism.
‘‘It is important for responsible tourism companies focusing on being regenerative in tourism, to not only do their part in carbon reduction measures but also support biodiversity issues.’’
