A Future We Can Believe In

Join world-renowned Orangutan Whisperer Leif Cocks as we focus on A Future We Can Believe In

Leif Cocks is the founder of The Orangutan Project, the International Tiger Project, and the International Elephant Project. This event focuses on A Future We Can Believe In - after more than two years of challenges, loss and trauma, even in the midst of an extinction crisis, there is good reason for hope. Joining Leif is acting legend Annie Whittle who chose to get behind The Orangutan Project as an Advocate because she believes in their holistic approach to the problem, "not just for orangutans, but for all species that rely on the rainforest for survival…including humans."

Set in The Maritime Room on Princes Wharf, one of the most spectacular event venues in Auckland, and hosted by the wonderful Donna Brookbanks, the evening will give you a unique insight into the work being undertaken to safeguard some of our planet’s last rainforest ecosystems and how this one direct action is a vital step towards safeguarding Critically Endangered orangutans - and creating a more stable world for us all.

Your ticket price includes a three-course five star vegan menu, quality New Zealand wine and boutique beer throughout the evening and superb live music by Jasper & Jane Hawkins, a brother and sister duo who stand out for their seamless harmonies and upbeat, lively sets. You will also have the opportunity to bid on an array of exclusive live and silent auction items. All proceeds will support efforts to protect the home to Critically Endangered orangutans.

Leif wants to share his vision, as well as his concerns about the stark reality of life on our planet, as we navigate this most important decade of change. We have only one decade left to turn the situation around, and although the challenges seem insurmountable, we are actively working on the solutions.

VIP tickets include a pre-event meet and greet with Leif as well as a signed copy of his latest book Finding Our Humanity.

If you have any questions please get in touch events@orangutan.org.nz

About your host

Leif Cocks is a primatologist with 30+ years experience working with orangutans and has a Masters of science studying orangutans. He led the project to re-introduce the first zoo-born orangutan into the wild, and in 1998 founded The Orangutan Project to secure the survival of Critically Endangered orangutans in their natural habitat.

The Orangutan Project has since contributed millions of dollars into orangutan conservation and has established a distinctive, holistic approach encompassing legally protecting rainforests; securing, restoring and patrolling rainforests; rescuing, rehabilitating and releasing ex-captive orangutans; and educating and empowering local communities and indigenous people.

Leif is the author of several books and academic papers on the subject of orangutan conservation, and his most recent Finding Our Humanity, also explores the fundamental links between our tribal past and our likely future on the planet (Books available on the night).

Last year Cocks was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia, one of the country’s highest honours, for his work protecting Critically Endangered orangutans.

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