Living Springs Embarks on Eco Sanctuary Feasibility Study

Living Springs is stepping into an exciting new chapter, exploring the creation of an eco sanctuary on its 400 hectare property on Banks Peninsula. A feasibility study has been commissioned and will be led by Jim Lynch, founder of Zealandia in Wellington. Zealandia is celebrated as the world’s first fully fenced urban ecosanctuary, pioneering a model of predator free, community led biodiversity restoration that has inspired similar conservation projects across New Zealand and beyond. Jim’s expertise will guide the development of a vision unique to Christchurch: a camp within an eco sanctuary.

This initiative builds on more than a decade of dedicated conservation work. Living Springs has planted over 67,000 native trees, shrubs, and grasses, created 13.7 kilometres of walking tracks and trails, and expanded predator control to 1,130 hectares in partnership with the Predator Free Allandale network. These efforts are deeply rooted in the principle of Ki Uta Ki Tai (from the mountains to the sea), recognising the interconnectedness of the land, people, and environment.

The eco sanctuary vision is a natural next step for Living Springs, a place where generations have come to connect with nature through school camps, community programmes, and outdoor adventures. By weaving biodiversity restoration with recreation and education, this project aims to create a sanctuary where both wildlife and people can flourish.

This has been a long held vision and it has the potential to be a gift to the city and the greater Christchurch region- Denis Aldridge, CEO.

The feasibility study will examine environmental, cultural, and operational requirements, laying the groundwork for a sanctuary that could transform Banks Peninsula and offer Christchurch a world class conservation destination. Community involvement will be central to this journey, with opportunities for volunteers, conservation partners, and donors to play a role in shaping the future.