Boring® Questions, Interesting Answers
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Meet Taylor from Orokonui Ecosanctuary, a spot nestled in Dunedin's coastal forest, where the only gridlock you'll find involves a pair of tūī debating territorial rights, and a coffee comes with a side of natural wonder.
Orokonui isn't just a sanctuary for native wildlife; but a getaway for anyone wanting to swap the city's hustle for a chorus of kākā and a bit of peace and quiet (except from the kākā).
Running on the dedication of their team, this sanctuary is home to 307 hectares of Coastal Otago forest kept safe by a nine kilometre predator fence, giving native wildlife the freedom to thrive. With pests out of the picture and habitats regularly spruced, Orokonui is a place where rare and endangered species find a safe haven.
We caught up with Taylor while we were in Dunedin this week to ask him a few boring questions.
Tell us a little bit about your role at Orokonui Ecosanctuary
My role is sanctuary comms, sharing stories about how special our wildlife is and showing the hard work being done to protect it. Mostly that involves online content like social media and newsletters. My favourite is when I get to hang out with a school group or work with the community.
Where would we find a bottle of Boring® at Orokonui?
The first place is obviously our cafe, sitting at the top of our valley is has to be one of the most scenic coffee spots in the city. Where else can you watch flocks of Kākā play while you enjoy your flat white? If you're around the operations tea room at the right time of day, you'll also see Boring® in the conservation team's coffees in between them tracking kiwi, cutting tracks, or keeping the fence strong.
What's something in Dunedin you think everyone should experience at least once?
Dunedin is the wildlife capital of New Zealand, whether it's seeing Kākā and Takahe at Orokonui, albatross at Taiaroa Head, or penguins on the beaches. Everyone should get out of the city to see the incredible natural treasures this city has to offer.
What's your favourite Dunedin meal and why?
Despite the cold, there's nothing like Dunedin beaches. So it would have to be hot chips and a long sunset. As someone who loves wildlife as well, nothing compares to checking out some sea lions while you have a feed.
Sum up Boring® in three words.
'Matches our vibe.' All about sustainability and protecting our environment.
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What does your family think your job is?
My daughter swears I “sell sauce” and my husband insists I “just move boxes around.”