Bird’s home in a dome

Press, 7 January 1982, Page 14

Bird’s home in a dome

This new aviary on Caroline Bay has been given to ■Timaru by the Caroline Bay Association. The structure, which encloses an arbour, is the habitat for several species of birds. Its shape adds to the dome-like nature of the skyline extending from the sound shell along the foreshore to the "nests” of grain silos and oil installations, and in a southerly direction to the cupolas of

the Church of the Sacred Heart Completion of the aviary, at the entrance to the' viaduct, is the Caroline Bay Association’s major project. The work, which includes the construction of a new toilet block and buildings associated with the aviary, is being carried out by the association and Timaru City Council at an estimated cost of $155,000. , Recent innovations at the

bay include a maze and a “fun and fitness” trail. Other developments which may take place include a miniature steam train to give children rides around the bay, and more barbecue areas. People may tackle the fun and fitness trail at a leisurely jog, or by walking. The site, which is already serviced by a large car park, is in an existing recreation area and use has been made

of facilities such as car barriers — which offer the chance of a great balancing g act — and playground equipment. The establishment of a salmon hatchery as a tourist attraction is now being investigated by the Timaru City Council’s promotion committee, as is the establishment of a “nocturnal" house for New Zealand fauna in Maori Park.