Manager Sabrina Luecht says Kaikōura Wildlife Rescue is in need of funding and supplies.

Even before Kaikōura Wildlife Rescue opened its doors in October it received its first patient.

A blue penguin male from a colony in South Bay was dropped off two weeks prior.

The bird, named Solo, had cuts, swelling and an infection in its leg after becoming entangled in a fishing line.

SUPPLIED Kaikōura Wildlife Rescue manager Sabrina Luecht and the first patient, a little blue penquin from South Bay.

It was no surprise to manager Sabrina Luecht, the person behind the new rescue facility.

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"it's something that unfortunately happens much too often," she said.

After three days of rest, medication, and feeding the bird was released back to its breeding colony.

​"I expected it - birds are always in need," she said.

"It was fortunate the person who brought the bird in already knew about my work."

Since then many birds have been handed into the facility on Mill Rd.

Among the crash-landed Hutton's shearwaters, there's been a pukeko hit by a car, a poisoned racing pigeon, abandoned grey teal and paradise shelduck ducklings, newly hatched pukeko chicks, as well as starling and thrush chicks attacked by cats.

Although the centre focuses on endemic or native species, Luecht will not turn away injured exotic birds.

The zoologist has worked with endangered wildlife over the world and is passionate about animal welfare as well as making a difference, and wants to inspire others through wildlife education.

Partner and sculptor Ben Foster has renovated the facility, which currently consists of a small indoor wildlife room and outdoor enclosure.

The long-term goal is to create a wildlife sanctuary, with several large flight aviaries on the property for native birds that can't be released but could be used for advocacy work.

The project is self-funded, but is in desperate need for money to cover the expenses associated with wildlife rehabilitation.

"I work from home and do it in my spare time," said Luecht.

​The facility works closely with VetCARE Kaikoura, and is hoping for local business sponsorships.

Luecht said it's important to make a difference and give back.

"I've got the passion, skills and knowledge and I'm really aware of how much wildlife comes in, and most of it is human-induced.

"The majority of birds tend to be threatened species due to predation and habitat loss.

"In Kaikōura we have quite a few bird species that aren't doing well. The Hutton's shearwater is endangered and its colonies were severely affected by the earthquake," she said

"Kaikōura is also the seabird capital of the world, with many albatross and petrel species. Many of these are declining and some are endangered. Shorebirds such as the banded dotterel are also doing very poorly."

If someone finds an injured or sick bird Luecht advises to place it in a box or crate, keep it in a cool quiet place, and call 021 585 586.

Healthy crash-landed Hutton's shearwaters that are not injured should be taken to the Hutton's Hub on 115 Ludstone Rd, which is checked daily.

"Any human interaction is hugely stressful for these wild animals. Seabirds can easily over heat, and the length of time from when a bird is collected and handed over is important. Minimising the risk of dehydration and managing injuries promptly is key."

For more information go to their Facebook page or to donate visit Givealittle.

Donations will cover ongoing medical, food, housing, equipment and cleaning supplies. The facility is always in need of towels, newspapers, food (including sardines, beef, venison, frozen sprats, cat biscuits), and cleaning supplies such as paper towels, disinfectants, and multi-purpose sprays.