Post by Summerset Retirement Villages

As we looked at ways to keep vegetation growing within our Summerset Shoal Bay site boundaries in check, we took the opportunity to do something different. Instead of treating the material as waste, we teamed up with Auckland Zoo to give it a second life - supporting animal enrichment and providing a natural food source. The Auckland Zoo herd of giraffe need 'browse', leafy vegetation which provides a nutrient-rich diet. The Summerset Shoal Bay site in Belmont has ample giraffe favourites, including monkey apple, willow and feijoa, while red panda has been enjoying a particular type of bamboo that grows within the site. This partnership gives us the chance to reduce our site's green waste and help a neighbour. It's a small practical example of how everyday site opportunities contribute positively to the community and our neighbours around us.