Wellington, NZ - Wellington ecosanctuary ZEALANDIA today announced the appointment of its new Patron - former Prime Minister and Minister of Conservation, Rt Hon Helen Clark.

“I am delighted to become Patron of ZEALANDIA,” Helen Clark said.

“I’ve long been impressed by its dedication to providing an urban ecosanctuary and restoring its corner of Wellington.”

“We could not be more thrilled,” said ZEALANDIA Chief Executive, Paul Atkins.

“Helen has been a life-long conservationist, both in her professional and private lives, and we are absolutely honoured to have her as our new Patron.”

Rt Hon Helen Clark was Prime Minister of New Zealand from 1999-2008 and Minister of Conservation from 1987-1989. As Minister of Conservation and as Prime Minister, Helen was a strong supporter of protection of habitat for New Zealand’s birds, and has personally visited ZEALANDIA and many other protected areas in New Zealand and around the world.

Helen has wide ranging interests in natural heritage globally and continues to advocate for the protection of wildlife and habitats. As Administrator of UNDP for eight years, she oversaw large programmes for wildlife and habitat protection on land and sea and in coastal areas.

“I very much look forward to visiting ZEALANDIA again and seeing the positive impact it is having as a habitat for New Zealand’s unique wildlife.” Helen Clark said.

ENDS

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