New admission charges lead to 49% rise in visitation at Wellington's Zealandia

The newly introduced pricing structure at Wellington wildlife sanctuary Zealandia has led to a 49% rise in admissions during October and November, when compared with the same period in 2012.

With visitor numbers having fallen in 2012, causing Wellington City Council to have to bail out the attraction with funding totalling nearly NZ$18 million, including NZ$7.6 million in grants.

During the two month period in which the new entry charges have applied, visits by family groups are up more than threefold, new memberships have more than doubled and, also reflecting the resurgence in family interest, family memberships within this peiod are up four fold.

Recently appointed Zealandia Chief Executive, Hilary Beaton explained "this is such a positive time to take up my role here at Zealandia.

"Wellingtonians are responding well to our recent changes (and) it's particularly encouraging to see the increase in family interest. At Zealandia we're working towards an inspiring 500 year vision and it's our future generations that will ultimately ensure that we get there."

Marketing & Sales Manager Peter Laurenson added "it's early days ... but the response to our recently announced new pricing and visitor experience enhancements is hugely encouraging.

"We want to encourage more locals to visit the eco-sanctuary and to benefit from the unique opportunity to engage with nature in the heart of our city. It seems to be working and we thank Wellingtonians for their support."

Denise Church, Chair of the Karori Sanctuary Trust which manages the attractions, reinforces her invitation for people to take a fresh look at Zealandia, concluding "the most common feedback we receive from people who come after a few years away is how much the place has changed how much more bird life, things to do and see, fascinating and informative tours and of course the excellent exhibition and Rata Café.

"With 15 years of restoration efforts behind us, the valley has a more established feel to it now and we hope you'll come and see for yourself the progress made by our community of over 450 volunteers, committed staff and key partners such as the City Council and Victoria University of Wellington."

The changes have seen general admission charges reduced significantly.

Adult entry, previously $28.50 for entry to the valley and exhibition, is now $17.50 and Family Admission has dropped from $71.50 to $44 (two adults and up to three children).

All General Admissions now include entry to all parts of the Zealandia experience: the valley, exhibition, and tours and talks.

Joining Zealandia in late October, prominent Wellingtonian Hilary Beaton is leading the management arrangements at Zealandia, which this year is operating under both a new Board and in a strategic 'enhanced partnership' with Wellington City Council.

Welcoming Beaton's appointment, Denise Church explained "Hilary will bring the ideal balance of energy and experience to help us meet our future challenges.

"We're responsible on behalf of our community for a magnificent part of Wellington's natural infrastructure.

"The broader context is the furthering of a Wellington initiative for world class contributions in community based conservation, research, education, and visitor experience, all within a tight economic climate.

"Given where we currently are on that journey, we couldn't think of a better person to take up the mantle than Hilary."

For more information go to www.visitzealandia.com/

20th July 2012 - FORMER AUDITOR-GENERAL NAMED AS NEW CHAIR OF ZEALANDIA’S INTERIM BOARD

25th May 2012 - ZEALANDIA TO REVIEW ADMISSION PRICES AFTER FALL IN VISITORS

29th March 2012 - WELLINGTON CITY COUNCIL BACKS ATTRACTIONS MANAGEMENT CCO TO CUT COSTS