Cornwall Park bird aviary upgrade

The Cornwall Park aviary has been upgraded in line with the Cornwall Park Reserve Management Plan (RMP) adopted by Council in March 2019. The works were completed in June 2023. 

The upgrade was focused on improving the existing site without changing the overall footprint. This includes all new concrete throughout; replacing the netting around the entire structure; repairing and replacing any damaged structural steel; all new drainage, water stations, bird feeders, and a new “beach” for the red eared slider turtles to provide a more natural egg laying area.

Just as humans like to stretch out, the aviary birds need plenty of space and plants for perching, foraging, flying and (for some) pulling branches apart.

To encourage these natural behaviours, specific varieties of trees and ground cover have been planted throughout along with better soil types. Temporary tree branches have also been placed in some enclosures for birds to pull apart.

Enhancements of the bird shelters have been made to encourage more free-flight between areas, and construction of additional nesting boxes to encourage breeding.

All work has been done in conjunction with recommendations from Massey University and the Wildbase Trust to ensure the welfare of the birds and turtles is the top priority, this includes only using materials that are non-toxic and approved by suppliers and consultants.

The two large parrots, Mate and Stevie Nicks, who used to live at the aviary, have spread their wings to their new SPCA-approved Northland home where they will remain. (Read more at the ‘Related Stories’ below.)

For more information on the aviary, click here. 

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