Barn Bonanza Promises Family Fun For All

Franklin Zoo Wildlife Sanctuary is gearing up for its first annual Barn Bonanza on SundayNovember 23rd in partnership with SPCA’s Birdwing and Robyn’s Nest, all of which provideshelter for injured birds and wildlife.

Apart from its exotic animals, Franklin Zoo is home to well over 100 birds including parrots and cockatoos, ducks and geese, even kea, morepork and a rescued hawk.

Director Dr Helen Schofield says the Barn Bonanza is also an opportunity to give some fun
and good times back to those who’ve been so supportive of the zoo and other the level of support.

“It’s going to be a totally fun day with lots of activities for the kids, a sausage sizzle, raffles,arts and crafts.

A highlight of the day will be the charity auction with Michael Boulgaris of ‘Location Location Location’ fame as our auctioneer.

“We’ve had some wonderful items donated for the auction; a helicopter ride, accommodation
packages, mystery envelopes, and even a children’s auction where nothing will go over $20.

“The zoo’s education centre will also be open to the public so people can ask questions
and find information about our local wildlife and birds and also animals from all over the
world.”

Dr Schofield says the day is being organised to launch the Franklin Bird and Wildlife Trust
as well as to celebrate Franklin Zoo’s Charitable Trust status.

“It’s very exciting to have the two Trusts established so we can start accepting the
generosity of our local community, Kiwis from all over the country and the visitors from
overseas who really want to do something for conservation.”

“It gives us scope to become much more involved in educating people about animals, their care and wellbeing.”

Franklin Zoo is home to five lions, a zebra, monkeys, lemurs and tamarins, an otter, turtles, as well as birds galore. It’s situated in the Bombay Hills, 5km from the turnoff along Ridge