Wildlife sanctuary Zealandia could soon become controlled by the Wellington City Council.
The Governance, Finance and Planning Committee has approved a proposal to make it a council controlled organisation, which includes the purchase of the 10.3 million dollar visitor centre.
The purchase would essentially pay off the loan council gave the Karori Sanctuary Trust to build it in the first place.
Deputy Mayor Justin Lester supports the proposal and says it'll ensure the financial security of the organisation
He says Zealandia is a jewel in the city's crown, it contributes hugely to biodiversity and the economy.