Christchurch City Council approves $1.2m for Orana Wildlife Park
Wednesday 23 September 2026 · 3 outlets · 3 reports · updated In this story Christchurch City Council, Orana Wildlife Park
The Christchurch City Council voted 13-3 to provide $1.2 million to Orana Wildlife Park during the second half of this financial year. The park previously warned it could run out of cash by March. Councillors have called on the Selwyn and Waimakariri councils to contribute to the funding.
Key facts
4 facts
- Council approved $1.2m for Orana Wildlife Park and $718,000 for the Arts Centre
- Orana Wildlife Park needs to raise $4.1m this financial year to avoid running out of cash by March
- The park expects annual shortfalls of $4.6m to $5.6m over the next five years
- Christchurch City Council has provided $2.37m to the park over the last five years
The full story
1 min read · 3 outlets
The Christchurch City Council has voted 13-3 to provide $1.2m to Orana Wildlife Park during the second half of this financial year. This funding is drawn from the council's forecast operating surplus. The money is conditional on the park providing half-year financial results and demonstrating progress on a recovery and financial sustainability plan.
Orana Wildlife Park previously stated it was in a "dire" financial position. The park warned it needed to raise $4.1m this financial year to prevent cash reserves from running dry by March. Over the next five years, the park forecasts annual shortfalls between $4.6m and $5.6m.
Councillors have suggested that Selwyn and Waimakariri district councils should also contribute to funding the park, as it is considered a regional facility. Councillor Jake McLellan noted a risk that the park could close. Selwyn mayor Lydia Gliddon stated she has not received a formal funding request but said any proposal would be considered through the district's long-term plan.
In a separate unanimous decision, the council granted $718,000 to the Arts Centre to assist with restoring the former Student Union building. This building was once the home of the Dux de Lux pub.
Where reports differ
- One report suggests the total funding for two attractions was nearly $2 million, while others specify the amounts as $1.2m and $718,000
Compiled from reports by The Press, NZ Herald and Stuff.