The Kārearea Falcon Trust has received a welcome boost with the donation of an electric Hyundai Kona from sponsor Marlborough Lines, helping to support its education, community outreach and wildlife rescue work.
Having sponsored the trust for nearly seven years, Marlborough Lines chief executive Tim Cosgrove says the donation reflects their commitment to supporting organisations that make a valuable contribution to the community.
The impact of Kārearea’s primary school education programme for Year 3 to 5 students has been significant, Tim says, with children responding enthusiastically to the falcon presentations and eager to learn more about the protected species.
“We’ve sat in on a couple of lessons, and the kids just absolutely love it.”
Tim explains the idea for the donation arose during a conversation with trust manager Holly Turner, who said the small team relied heavily on their own vehicles to deliver education programmes and carry out wildlife rescues, which can involve travel beyond Marlborough.
Holly says the donation will have multiple benefits, including lowering operating costs and reducing the trust’s environmental footprint.
“As a small wildlife charity, every dollar counts. Having an electric vehicle will help reduce transport costs, allowing more funding to go directly to the birds, rehabilitating injured falcons and supporting our breeding-for-release programme.
“It’s a win for both the sustainability of our conservation work and improving the environmental footprint of our trust. We’re incredibly grateful to Marlborough Lines for its generosity and passion for our mahi in the community.”
The vehicle also features a striking image of resident falcon Koha photographed by local photographer Sue Henley, helping raise awareness of the species wherever the car travels.
“It’s just going to lift all elements of what we do and keep our wheels turning, so to speak.” Holly says.
