$150K raised at RealNZ's Conservation Ball
More than $150,000 was raised at RealNZ's Conservation Ball annual to support the translocation of takahē into the Rees Valley.
The annual black tie event took place on Saturday night at Walter Peak, with the funds raised through live and online auctions.
The funds will help the tourism giant, along with Southern Lakes Sanctuary, the Department of Conservation, and other conservation partners, to protect the Rees Valley from predators and allow native birds to thrive in the area.
Creating a safe habitat in the valley means that DOC will be able to relocate one of New Zealand's most endangered species there – the takahē.
"We’re thrilled to have raised such a substantial amount for the Rees Valley sanctuary project," RealNZ CEO Dave Beeche says. "The funds will help support a thriving habitat for our precious native birds, and the future relocation of takahē to the Valley.
“The Conservation Ball’s success is a testament to the organising team, the attendees, and the RealNZ community’s commitment to conservation – we are incredibly proud of this result.”
Guests travelled to and from the venue on the historic 112-year-old TSS Earnslaw.
