The smaller critters often get the least attention - yet they make up the foundations of life in our ecosystems.In Aotearoa New Zealand, invertebrates and lizards help recycle nutrients, disperse seeds, pollinate native plants, and support the whole food web. And they’re also some of the hardest animals to actually understand and protect.In this episode, we head back to the Southern Lakes Sanctuary for a round two with their herpetologist and invertebrate specialist, Samuel Purdie, who pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to look after species like the Southern Alps giant wētā (Deinacrida pluvialis).These rare alpine insects survive in harsh, often freezing landscapes and are now classified as nationally endangered.Monitoring methods like tracking tunnels, mark-recapture studies, cameras, and eDNA all tell different parts of the story. And without careful calibration, they can paint wildly different pictures.Sam also gives an inside look at the technical and physical reality of alpine fieldwork: night surveys on steep terrain, tents flooding, hazardous cliffs, and the huge challenge of getting reliable data. It’s an eye-opening conversation about some of the least visible yet critical species in the Southern Lakes ecosystem, and why paying attention to the small stuff matters more than most people realise.Here are some of the key topics we discussed:Why invertebrates and lizards are foundational to healthy ecosystemsWhat we know about the Southern Alps giant wētā, their alpine adaptations, and threats they faceHow climate change is shrinking alpine habitats and the consequencesWhy mice are a major, underestimated threat that should be included in Predator Free 2050The complexities of doing monitoring properly that are often overlookedThe physical and rugged reality of alpine fieldworkWhy inconsistent monitoring methods can mislead conservation effortsHow habitat modification and fire pose risks to lizard populationsPractical ways the public can helpAnd much more…🧑🦱About Samuel:Samuel Purdie is a herpetologist, science educator, and award-winning wildlife photographer from Rotorua. Sam holds a BSc in Zoology and Ecology and a PGDip in Wildlife Management from the University of Otago, and has recently completed his MSc focusing on native alpine lizards.A lifelong enthusiast for “creepy crawlies,” Samuel spends much of his time turning over rocks in search of New Zealand’s lesser-known species. As Biodiversity Projects Coordinator at Southern Lakes Sanctuary, he's involved in planning and monitoring for these cryptic native lizards and shares his striking wildlife photography and species knowledge across Southern Lakes Sanctuary's media channels.🔗Learn more:Southern Lakes website: www.southernlakessanctuary.org.nzInstagram: www.instagram.com/southernlakessanctuaryFacebook: www.facebook.com/SouthernLakesSanctuarySam’s website: www.samuelpurdiewildlife.com🎙️Learn more about the podcast at www.conservationamplified.org
The Queenstown Lakes District is one of the most spectacular places on Earth - a picturesque landscape of mountains, lakes, and remote valleys where nature still feels wild.But beneath the beauty lies a conservation challenge: around 40 native species in the region are threatened or at risk of extinction.For decades, local communities have stepped up to protect these landscapes and wildlife, powered by volunteers putting in the hard yards. Now, Southern Lakes Sanctuary is helping to take that effort to the next level, supporting the mahi of six long-running conservation groups representing nearly 100 projects, landowners, businesses and hundreds of volunteers across 198,000 hectares, with plans to scale to 850,000HA over time.In this episode, CEO Paul Kavanagh pulls back the curtain on what happens when communities get the backing they need: skilled staff, smart tech, and funding that lets them go further together. From self-resetting traps to eDNA monitoring and beyond, this work is helping species like kea and mōhua return to the landscapes they once called home.Takahē, once declared extinct, now roam the Rees Valley again - a testament to what’s possible through collaboration.It’s a story of people, progress, and pragmatic action, showing how skilled professionals and passionate locals can work hand in hand to protect Aotearoa’s wildlife at scale.Here are some of the key topics we discussed:How six established conservation groups joined forces to form Southern Lakes SanctuaryManaging volunteer fatigue by adding professional support to complement volunteer-led mahiExpanding predator control from 6,400 to 13,000+ traps and removing more than 70,000 introduced animalsWhy measuring biodiversity outcomes matters more than counting traps and the role of robust monitoringThreatened species management across the project areaThe critical role of sustainable, long-term funding and partnerships with business and philanthropyHow AI-enabled, self-resetting traps and live mesh networks are transforming remote predator controlThe importance of working in urban and peri-urban areas as well as the back countryAnd much more…🧑🦱About Paul:Paul worked as a field biologist in Ireland after graduating with an Honours degree in Zoology from University College Dublin. He moved to NZ from Ireland in 2009 to further his career in conservation. Paul was General Manager of the Kiwi Birdlife Park, a wildlife park dedicated to preserving some of Aotearoa’s unique native species, for over 12 years before his appointment to his role as CEO with the Southern Lakes Sanctuary.🔗Learn more:Website: www.southernlakessanctuary.org.nzReport Takahē Sightings: www.southernlakessanctuary.org.nz/takahe-sightingsInstagram: www.instagram.com/southernlakessanctuaryFacebook: www.facebook.com/SouthernLakesSanctuary🎙️Learn more about the podcast at www.conservationamplified.org
Most New Zealanders have never seen a bat, yet their presence signals the health of our forests.They’re our only native land mammals, quietly pollinating, eating insects, and supporting ecosystem balance. But with many areas still unmonitored and major data gaps in our understanding, their story remains half-told.In this episode, senior ecologist and bat expert Mark Roper joins us to share insights from years of fieldwork and research into Aotearoa’s long-tailed and short-tailed bats: how they live, where they roost, the challenges of collecting and processing data on them, and how community-led projects are uncovering new knowledge about where they’ve been found.Mark explains how emerging technology is transforming bat research - from low cost acoustic recorders paired with AI-based online classifiers that identify calls, to the National Bat Survey bringing communities together throughout the country. This episode uncovers a bigger picture: how collaboration, technology, and local action are helping us better understand and protect one of Aotearoa’s most overlooked native species.Here are some of the key topics we discussed:Population estimates of long- and short-tailed batsMajor threats including habitat loss, introduced predators, and light pollutionWhy bats are useful indicators of forest healthThe impact of wind farms and the emerging live curtailment approach that balances renewable energy with wildlife protectionHow affordable recorders and AI classifiers are making bat detection accessible for citizen scienceWhy we should consider requiring all bat data to be entered into an open national databaseAnd much more…🧑🦱About Mark:Mark Roper is a bat ecologist and founder of The Bat Co. Lab. Splitting his time between New Zealand and Sweden, he uses sound and technology to uncover what bats can tell us about the health of our planet. Mark leads the NZ National Bat Survey and works with researchers and communities worldwide to better understand where bats live, why they matter, and how listening to them can guide smarter conservation.🔗Learn more:Website: www.thebatcolab.co.nz Facebook: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574762309249Instagram: www.instagram.com/thebatcolabLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/markroyroperMore bat resources: www.doc.govt.nz/nature/native-animals/bats-pekapeka/resources-for-bat-workers🎙️Learn more about the podcast at www.conservationamplified.org
For many careers, purpose doesn’t extend much beyond cashing in the payslip.For Michelle Impey, she’s lived a career of purpose for 20+ years.As CEO of Save the Kiwi, Michelle has led the organisation’s evolution from a one-person funding distributor to a national team delivering measurable conservation outcomes for our national icon, the kiwi bird.In this episode, we talk candidly about building a career with purpose - the trade-offs and rewards, the culture that keeps people for decades, and how business skills like fundraising, operations and communications can drive real impact alongside fieldwork. You don’t necessarily need an ecology degree to help; you need intent, passion and persistence.Michelle also outlines the NZ conservation sector’s evolution. From early research into kiwi decline and DoC sanctuaries, to the community-led and iwi-led movement, Predator Free 2050, new technologies, and Save the Kiwi’s own incubation and crèche programmes - this is proof that collaboration can turn the tide for Aotearoa’s wildlife.Here are some of the key topics we discussed:Lessons from 20 years leading and growing a conservation charityHow New Zealand’s kiwi recovery efforts have evolvedWhat leading a purpose-driven organisation really looks like day to dayBlending business skills with conservation outcomesApplying entrepreneurial thinking to conservation challengesAdvice for anyone looking to start or transition into a purpose-driven careerFinding your place in conservation - from volunteering to leadershipWhy culture and long-term commitment matter in meaningful workAnd much more…👩About Michelle:For more than 20 years, Michelle Impey has been the CEO of Save the Kiwi, an organisation that’s on a mission to grow kiwi to abundance across New Zealand. Save the Kiwi works alongside iwi, conservation groups, and the Department of Conservation to raise awareness about the plight of the kiwi, how important the species is to New Zealand’s national identity, and what Kiwis can do to help their namesake.During her 20+ years in this role, Michelle has witnessed the explosive growth of iwi- and community-led kiwi conservation initiatives, which have in turn created more kiwi-safe habitat all over the country and a greater collective desire for kiwi to return to places where they once thrived. Michelle works tirelessly to ensure kiwi remain at the forefront of New Zealand's consciousness, reminding everyone around her that one person taking small action can lead to monumental change.🔗Learn more:Website: www.savethekiwi.nzFacebook: www.facebook.com/savethekiwinewzealandInstagram: www.instagram.com/savethekiwinzLinkedIn: ww.linkedin.com/company/save-the-kiwi🎙️Learn more about the podcast at www.conservationamplified.org
What happens when one of the Bay of Plenty’s most degraded catchments becomes a restoration success story?In the 90s, the Te Mania Catchment was a major source of sediment flowing into the Tauranga Moana, with a stream health of 2/10. The stream flowed through Pukekauri Farm, managed by Rick Burke and the Seddon family. And they decided to do something about it.They began their journey of environmental restoration at the same time as redesigning the farm to maximise productivity. Today, after 25+ years of riparian fencing, wetland restoration, pest control and assisted native regeneration, the same waterway scores a remarkable 9/10.By slowing water with wetland sponges, planting steep erodible hillsides and stream edges back into native forest, and learning from mistakes like “wrong tree, wrong place,” Rick and, more recently, his brother John proved how ecological health and farm profitability go hand in hand.Returning 25% of their land to nature didn’t hold them back - it made the farm easier to manage and more profitable.But John’s message goes further. In a paper proposing reforms to the primary sector, he calls for a unified Aotearoa farm plan - linking on-farm restoration to catchment outcomes, avoiding greenwashing, and ensuring NZ’s global brand is built on verified ecological health.Here are some of the key topics we discussed:The journey John’s family went through in restoring their farmThe 1970s/80s incentives that led to clearing vast areas of native forest and how farming culture has evolvedThe red zone vs blue zone mindset for farmer wellbeing and productivityHow ‘kitchen-window projects’ are a great way to start small to build momentumThe major problems with environmental weeds and why whole communities must get involvedThe Tīmata method as a way to plant native forest for a fraction of the costAssisted natural regeneration and rebuilding soil and fungal biomesLinking farm outcomes to NZ’s export story and avoiding greenwashingCatchment groups as anchors for resilience and community wellbeingJohn’s paper and the case for a unified Aotearoa farm planAnd much more…🧑🦱About John:John Burke’s career spans roles as farmer, orchardist, agri-business consultant and environmental manager. He is passionate about economic and practical farming practices and restoring the health of waterways. John’s aim is to share his experience of improving water quality and achieving positive balance in rural communities.🔗Learn more:John’s Paper: https://www.wai-kokopu.org.nz/john-burkes-paper/Wai Kōkopu: https://wai-kokopu.org.nzProject Parore: https://projectparore.nzCommunity Catchments Aotearoa: https://www.cca.nz/Tiwaiwaka: https://www.tiwaiwaka.nz🎙️Learn more about the podcast at www.conservationamplified.org
Nature doesn’t stop at the fence-line, so why should conservation?Throughout Aotearoa, catchment groups are changing the conservation narrative. Farmers, foresters, iwi and communities are working together at landscape scale - proving that when landowners are given structure and support, they become powerful custodians of nature.The results ripple well beyond any single farm gate. From 6,000-hectare predator control projects to riparian planting that cools streams, this work flows from the headwaters to the moana, making towns more resilient to cyclones, waterways healthier, and ecosystems more connected.But catchment groups are more than conservation alone. In remote communities, they’re taking on roading contracts, generating local jobs, and providing disaster resilience - building social fabric as well as ecological health.In this episode, Sam “The Trap Man” Gibson shares how catchment groups evolve, what they need to thrive, and why their growth could be one of the most important shifts in Aotearoa’s conservation story.Here are some of the key topics we discussed:What catchment groups are and how they’ve grown in NZWhy bipartisan political support makes them unique in the conservation landscapeHow incentives work better than penalties in driving on-farm changeKiwi surveys on dairy farms sparking wider ecosystem restorationCyclone Gabrielle recovery as proof of community resilienceThe role of paid coordinators in keeping groups alive and thrivingCatchment groups as job creators and anchors for rural communitiesHow catchment groups combine into catchment collectives, achieving conservation and resilience at regional scaleHow this movement ties into Predator Free 2050 and climate resilienceSam’s documentary Think Like a Forest and the vision of Recloaking PapatūānukuAnd much more…👩About Sam:Sam/Hamiora Gibson (better known as Sam the Trap Man) is a trapper, conservationist, communicator, and community leader. Through roles with NZ Landcare Trust, Mountains to Sea, and regional councils, he has spent years supporting and establishing catchment groups throughout New Zealand.With over a decade of experience spanning DOC, Goodnature, and community-led projects like Eastern Whio Link, Sam has designed predator control networks, coordinated large-scale conservation initiatives, and helped rural communities turn their aspirations for biodiversity and resilience into action.🔗Learn more:NZ Landcare Trust: https://www.landcare.org.nz Sam’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sam_the_trap_man Sam’s Facebook: https://ww.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100050646522100 🎙️Learn more about the podcast at www.conservationamplified.org
When a child says, “Mum, I did something to save the planet,” something shifts - not just in the home, but throughout the local community.In this episode, we’re joined by Sally Clegg from Trees for Survival, a long-running, school-based programme that’s growing the next generation of environmental changemakers.Through hands-on reforestation projects, school children are cultivating native seedlings and planting them on retired farmland to stabilise eroded hillsides and restore the edges of waterways. In these places, native trees filter water, anchor soil, and kickstart habitat recovery.It’s not just about getting plants in the ground. This programme brings conservation into the classroom, giving teachers the tools to connect science, biodiversity, and climate learning with something their students can touch and feel.Sally shares powerful stories of kids asking big questions, moving landowners to tears, and inspiring parents to act. Some go on to study horticulture or take up conservation careers. Others simply grow up knowing they can make a difference - and that’s where real change begins.If every school in Aotearoa New Zealand planted 800-1000 trees a year, what kind of future could we grow?Here are some of the key topics we discussed:How Trees for Survival began through Rotary and a global call to protect the planet.What makes a planting site ideal for both students and environmental impact.How students' views about the value of native trees shifts throughout the programme.Real stories of curiosity-led learning, spontaneous karakia, and intergenerational influence.What’s expected of landowners, and how many go above and beyond to support student success.How Trees for Survival tracks long-term impact.How the Ministry of Education could help to scale it nationwide.And much more…👩About Sally:Sally has worked for the last decade with Trees for Survival, playing an integral part in its evolution from a volunteer organisation to one with a stable funding base. She has worked in a range of roles from seed collection to school shade house deliveries and as a facilitator for the Franklin schools, which has given her a unique perspective on this educational environmental programme.She views increasing the awareness and appreciation of Aotearoa’s native trees through practical learning and empowering teachers and students as a key strength of Trees for Survival. Sally is continually working to make the programme even better.🔗Learn more:Website: https://www.tfsnz.org.nzFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/treesforsurvivalInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/treesforsurvivalnz🎙️Learn more about the podcast at www.conservationamplified.org
“People are the absolute silver bullet to this whole predator-free thing.”Dan Henry didn’t set out to lead a movement. But when he and a friend began handing out rat traps around their suburb of Miramar, something clicked. No committees. No red tape. Just a simple idea people could say yes to.Predator Free Miramar was born.Over the following 6 years, that idea helped turn an entire urban peninsula in Wellington into a predator free zone - strengthening not just local biodiversity, but the social fabric of the community itself.What started with backyard trapping is now a network of volunteers working alongside Predator Free Wellington to hold the line and push the vision further.Motivations varied. Some wanted more birds, others just needed a good night’s sleep. But the outcomes stacked up: healthier homes, new friendships, and stronger community resilience.From Darryl’s quiet leadership in social housing to trap boxes built in garages, this is conservation powered by trust, action, and momentum. As Dan puts it, “If the people want this badly enough, the pressure will come on and the politicians will listen and it will be funded.”So if you think conservation only happens in the bush, think again. Urban centres are key to a predator-free Aotearoa. And every person counts.Here are some of the key topics we discussed:How a simple backyard trapping idea grew into Predator Free Miramar.The importance of keeping things simple and fun to build long-term momentum.What it takes to build trust and participation across a diverse urban neighbourhood.Stories of unexpected local champions.The broader impacts of backyard trapping.Why mindset was important to achieve predator-free status.The ongoing challenge of keeping Miramar peninsula rat-free.Why urban neighbourhoods are key to a predator-free Aotearoa.Tips for starting backyard trapping in your own community.And much more…🧑🦱 About DanDan Henry is the driving force behind Predator Free Miramar, an initiative he co-founded in 2017 aimed at eradicating introduced predators from the peninsula. Under Dan’s leadership, this community project has blossomed from a small group of dedicated trappers to a thriving network of over 1,000 households, successfully removing more than 10,000 predators and allowing native wildlife to thrive.Dan’s hands-on approach includes personally delivering traps, training residents, and hosting community events, which has fostered a strong sense of shared purpose and pride among locals. His efforts have led to a remarkable resurgence of native bird populations and increased sightings of wildlife like mokomoko (lizards) and wētā. Working alongside Predator Free Wellington, Dan and his team of volunteers have not only eliminated rats from the Miramar Peninsula – a world first in an urban environment – but they have successfully maintained that predator-free status for more than a year.🔗Learn more:Predator Free Miramar Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/PFMiramarDan’s Predator Free Resource: www.pfw.org.nz/site/assets/files/1329/predator_free_miramar_-_how_to_kill_rats_and_engage_a_community.pdf🎙️Learn more about the podcast at www.conservationamplified.org
Commercial pine forests and kiwi conservation: contradiction or opportunity?“We know kiwi are happy to live in commercial forests. And we know that of New Zealand's landmass, I think it's something like 7% of that landmass is covered in commercial forests of some description.”That’s about 1.8 million hectares of a largely untapped habitat many people overlook!In this episode, forestry specialist Craig Balsom from Save the Kiwi explains the sometimes surprising role New Zealand’s pine plantation forests can play in kiwi conservation. Craig shares how Save the Kiwi and forest owners are working together to map kiwi presence and train harvest crews on how to detect kiwi sign. He also highlights how some forestry companies are already doing a great job with predator control efforts and strict dog management rules within their estates.Alongside these efforts, updated guidelines and a new research project are helping to answer tough questions about how modern harvesting impacts kiwi today.Craig also addresses how working with industry comes with risks, especially the danger of greenwashing: “We step into these spaces, only if we know that the people or the company (...) that we're partnering with are being open and honest and transparent about what they're wanting to achieve and why they're wanting to achieve it.” That means doing due diligence and choosing partners carefully.If we balance it right, pine forests could significantly increase kiwi habitat in Aotearoa and complement traditional conservation efforts.Here are some of the key topics we discussed:When it was discovered that kiwi live in pine forest.Current practices around keeping kiwi in plantations safe.Why forestry companies are motivated to support kiwi conservation.New research into how modern harvesting affects kiwi.How well-managed pine forests can complement conservation efforts.Examples and case studies.Potential greenwashing issues.And much more…🧑🦱 About Craig For the past two years, Craig Balsom has been working with forestry companies as Save the Kiwi’s in-house forestry specialist. With almost 30 years’ experience in commercial forestry, Craig has been able to utilise his industry knowledge to assist Save the Kiwi in encouraging and supporting more pine plantations to embrace predator management.A key focus has been providing updated forestry guidelines for plantation owners and managers. Pine plantations offer a significant untapped resource for kiwi with a multitude of fauna. Craig has been championing the effective use of the infrastructure that companies already have in place (particularly access roads and personnel) to make the most of a fantastic biodiversity opportunity for an industry that is often seen as having a poor environmental impact.Craig (Ngāti Hei) has also prioritised engaging iwi and the shared kaitiakitanga that is fundamental to the Save the Kiwi kaupapa.🔗Learn more:Website: www.savethekiwi.nz Facebook: www.facebook.com/savethekiwinewzealandInstagram: www.instagram.com/savethekiwinz🎙️Learn more about the podcast at www.conservationamplified.org
“I hold hope for the future of kea in that they are smart and adaptable birds, but we really need to act to help them on their way.”And it takes a special kind of people to do exactly that: you need equal parts physical endurance, technical mountaineering expertise, and adaptive problem-solving in some of Aotearoa’s most challenging environments.Picture this: walking a thousand metres straight up alpine terrain with tramping packs loaded with camping gear and scientific equipment. Then spending days catching and banding kea, or triangulating radio signals with directional aerials through unmarked backcountry to locate a single nesting female. This is the reality behind the data points that drive kea conservation.In this episode of the People Helping Nature Podcast, Lydia McLean from the Kea Conservation Trust (KCT), takes us behind-the-scenes and reveals what really happens in the rugged reality of alpine conservation fieldwork. KCT’s projects range from nest survivorship studies, where motion-activated cameras reveal what's happening around individual kea nests, to understanding entire population trends. Through collaborative trials with DOC and Ngāi Tahu, KCT also supports the testing of breakthrough predator control methods that could transform how we protect kea.This hands-on approach proves that protecting the world's only alpine parrot requires innovation matching their intelligence - and demonstrates why understanding the realities on the ground is essential for effective conservation at scale.Key topics discussed:What a typical day of kea field work looks like.The diverse range of projects KCT leads and supports.Differences between eastern and western kea populations.How kea are threatened by predators.The importance of landscape-scale predator control.Testing a new method of using 1080 and why it’s needed.How to report your kea sightings and get involved.And much more…👩About Lydia:Lydia (PhD, MSciComm, BSc) began working with kea in 2017 after deciding to put her tramping and mountaineering experience into conservation. Her PhD focused on kea foraging behaviour and diet to better understand how to protect them from traps and poisons intended for predators. She now works for DOC in Fiordland as well as managing the KCT’s field programme in the Southern South Island. 🔗Learn more:KCT’s website: www.keaconservation.co.nz Facebook: www.facebook.com/keaconservationhttps://newzealandecology.org/nzje/3599https://www.jstor.org/stable/26775032https://newzealandecology.org/nzje/3341https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/03014223.2021.2021249🎙️Learn more about the podcast at www.conservationamplified.org
New Zealand's most intelligent native bird is at risk of fading away, despite being highly visible around tourist hotspots.Kea, the world's only alpine parrot, captivates hearts and minds with their vibrant personalities and remarkable intelligence comparable to that of a four-year-old child.These charismatic birds skillfully navigate harsh mountain environments, yet face a range of threats pushing their population to dangerously low levels - just a few thousand individuals spread across 3.5 million hectares.In this episode of the People Helping Nature Podcast, Tamsin Orr-Walker, co-founder and chair of the Kea Conservation Trust (KCT), explains how these birds were decimated by a century-long bounty that killed 150,000 kea and continue to struggle with introduced predators, lead poisoning, and harmful human interactions."There was a perception that kea were doing well, that they didn't have any problems," explains Tamsin. But evidence gathered over the last few decades proves that this is far from reality.KCT's work encompasses a wide range of activities, including removing toxic lead from old buildings, nest monitoring, research, advocacy, and more.Through community partnerships and targeted conservation efforts, Tamsin and her team are working to ensure these remarkable alpine parrots continue to soar throughout the South Island’s mountains for generations to come.Here are some of the key topics we discussed:Fascinating kea facts.The shocking history of humans hunting kea.The devastating impact of stoats and feral cats on kea populations.Why lead poisoning from old buildings is as deadly as predation.KCT’s inspiring efforts to protect kea from the many threats they face.The scientific and conservation importance of having a captive population.The "Keep Kea Wild" pledge that KCT is developing.What not to do when you’re in kea country.How to report your kea sightings and contribute to their conservation.And much more…👩About Tamsin:Tamsin is co-founder of the Kea Conservation Trust and has been the Chair since its inception. Tamsin manages the Trust’s day to day operations and coordinates KCT’s projects and partnerships. She was appointed a MNZM for services to kea conservation in 2020 and represents the KCT on the Kea Recovery Group.🔗Learn more:KCT’s website: www.keaconservation.co.nzFacebook: www.facebook.com/keaconservationInstagram: www.instagram.com/keaconservation🎙️About the podcast:The People Helping Nature podcast is brought to you by Conservation Amplified, a registered New Zealand charity.We are on a mission to help make conservation mainstream by amplifying the awesome stuff people are doing to help nature all around Aotearoa New Zealand.Because when people are aware, connected to the ecosystems around them and care enough to take positive action, only then will we see lasting change.Listen in and follow us to start or deepen your journey.Find out more about Conservation Amplified at www.conservationamplified.org.
“If you want to know how many kororā live in New Zealand, go find them.”The world’s smallest penguin species could be vanishing right before our eyes - without enough data to confirm their suspected decline.Kororā (little penguins) are thought to be in trouble throughout Aotearoa, yet we lack the nationwide monitoring to prove it. In this episode of the People Helping Nature Podcast, Hiltrun Ratz and Melissa McLuskie from the New Zealand Penguin Initiative (NZPI) reveal how they're uniting community groups all over NZ to fill critical knowledge gaps about this species. Through standardised monitoring and collaborative efforts, NZPI is building the evidence needed for meaningful protection."We need to avoid being the ambulance at the bottom of the cliff, but put the fence up at the top before it gets too bad and they fade away," warns Hiltrun. The good news? Kororā can thrive alongside humans if they’re given the space and protection they need. By respecting their habitat and supporting local groups, we can help ensure future generations will be able to say, "we have penguins in our backyard."Here are some of the key topics we discussed:Why kororā are classified as "at-risk declining" despite limited data.Major threats including habitat loss, predation, and human disturbance.How climate change is affecting kororā populations.The importance of monitoring on land and at sea.Why kororā are an indicator species for our coastal regions.How NZPI is coordinating nationwide monitoring and conservation efforts to fill the data gaps.Simple actions anyone can take to protect kororā in their local area.What to do if you encounter an injured or dead penguin.And much more…👩About Hiltrun:Hiltrun has dedicated more than three decades to penguin conservation in NZ. She joined NZPI as a penguin scientist in 2021, supporting community groups nationwide to understand and reduce threats to kororā.Her journey began in 1991 with a PhD on introduced predators of yellow-eyed penguins, followed by almost 20 years at Penguin Place on the Otago Peninsula. After leaving in 2013, she contributed to Penguin Rescue's work at Moeraki, before becoming the scientist for Blue Penguins Pukekura at Taiaroa Head (2016-2021), where she established microchipping and monitoring programmes for their little penguin population.👩About Melissa:Melissa joined the NZPI team in 2023 after relocating to the West Coast. With a background in zookeeping, wildlife veterinary nursing and a Bachelor of Science, she previously worked with Western Bay Wildlife Trust, advocating for kororā protection by undertaking community engagement, rescue, rehabilitation, scientific research and habitat restoration.Melissa is dedicated to reducing human-wildlife conflict, improving habitat, and hopes to inspire communities to look after their local penguin colonies to ensure they remain an important part of terrestrial and marine ecosystems for future generations. 🔗Learn more:NZPI’s website: www.nzpi.nzFacebook: www.facebook.com/NZpenguins Instagram: www.instagram.com/nzpenguins🎙️Learn more about the podcast at www.conservationamplified.org
“The Raukūmara was never prioritised. It was forgotten."For generations, local iwi Ngati Porou and Te Whanau-a-Apanui watched their ancestral forest degrade. The Raukūmara reached breaking point. Deer had stripped the understory bare, and possums and rats had multiplied unchecked, reaching catastrophic levels. The question became urgent: how could they save their dying forest?In this episode of the People Helping Nature Podcast, Ora Barlow, who played an instrumental role, shares the remarkable journey of the Raukūmara Pae Maunga Restoration Project - an iwi-led conservation initiative that's become the largest of its kind in the world."The ngāhere is such an honest storyteller of its own story. It tells its story. It doesn't lie. Once you see it, you can't unsee it."Listening to their ngāhere (forest) and understanding its crisis sparked a revolutionary movement where locals mobilised when nobody else would, turning years of voluntary advocacy into the largest Māori-led 1080 operation to date.What makes Raukūmara Pae Maunga’s approach unique isn't just pace and scale, but how they ensured community support. Through marae-based wānanga and forest visits, they created safe spaces where difficult conversations about conservation tools could happen openly. They built understanding and support first, creating a strong foundation of trust before any 1080 rollout and deer culling began.The results have been dramatic. But the most powerful aspect? This project shows that taking people on the journey isn't just about overcoming resistance. It's about creating intergenerational resilience that ensures results are lasting and permanent.Here are some of the key topics we discussed:The significance Raukūmara holds as ancestral land for Te Whanau-a-Apanui and Ngati Porou.The unique strengths of iwi-led conservation compared to other approaches.Why conservation at pace and scale is critical for NZ's biodiversity future.How the Raukūmara ecological collapse was having ripple effects from mountain to sea.The powerful approach of humanising conservation: "seeing for yourself" rather than telling people about problems.The journey to understand and implement 1080 and deer culling at scale.The importance of creating safe spaces for difficult conversations.Why conservation requires shifting from siloed approaches to collaborative knowledge-sharing.And much more…👩About Ora:Ko Ora Barlow no Te Whanau-a-Apanui, Ngai Tai, Whakatohea, Ngati PorouInvolved in the Raukūmara project from the early stages of community activation and planning, Ora is currently a Governor on Raukumara Pae Maunga and also works as a Pou Uruao a Motu (National Engagement) for Save the Kiwi.She has a strong involvement in māori environmental kaupapa and conservation projects with a range of iwi, and advocates restoring native forests at scale.🔗Learn more:Raukūmara Pae Maunga’s website: www.raukumara.org.nzFacebook: www.facebook.com/KoTeRaukumaraTeNgahereInstagram: www.instagram.com/raukumarapaemaunga🎙️Learn more about the podcast at www.conservationamplified.org
What if businesses could become a driving force behind positive environmental action, complementing and accelerating conservation efforts worldwide?Despite their significant impact on our planet, less than 10% of small businesses have measured their carbon footprint. The perceived complexity of taking climate action has created a massive barrier - something Carlos Chambers experienced firsthand when his previous company's carbon measurement took an astonishing 130 hours to complete. This led him to start CarbonInvoice™ to help solve this problem using technology.In this episode of the People Helping Nature Podcast, we explore how businesses can move beyond the perception that environmental action is in the ‘too hard basket’ and instead embrace taking simple action to become a force for good."The heroes of today are the scientists and the business people," Carlos explains. "I think that's broadly who society looks to, the people with the knowledge and then the people with the influence and the resources."Beyond digital solutions, Carlos also shares how connecting businesspeople directly with nature through native tree planting creates profound, lasting experiences. These hands-on activities benefit ecosystems and plant seeds of environmental awareness that continue to grow long after participants return to their offices, potentially creating a future where business and conservation naturally grow together.Listen in as we explore how businesses are uniquely positioned to drive environmental progress in ways that complement traditional conservation efforts.Here are some of the key topics we discussed:The barriers preventing most small businesses from taking climate action to date.How to overcome climate complexity by making action easy and rewarding.The definition of greenwashing and the importance of transparency.How competition and survival instincts can drive a "race to the top" in sustainability.Why hands-on tree planting creates profound experiences for business teams.The ripple effects when businesses take climate action in their communities.Simple ways businesses can start their climate journey today.And much more…👩About Carlos:Carlos Chambers brings 12+ years of entrepreneurial experience across climate, fintech, and b2b software. He founded and successfully grew Common Ledger, a fintech and data business. Working with small businesses and their accounting data gave him deep insights into the domain. He combines this with his commercial law and climate advocacy background, giving him the ideal foundation of experience, skills and passion to build CarbonInvoice™.🔗Learn more:CarbonInvoice™: www.carboninvoice.com 🎙️Learn more about the podcast at www.conservationamplified.org
What does it take to transform a planting project into a thriving, self-sustaining NZ native forest?In short, it's a long-term commitment that goes far beyond the initial planting day: The secret to success isn't the day you put trees in the ground, it comes from everything that happens before and after.In this episode of the People Helping Nature Podcast, we welcome Wayne O’Keefe back to share crucial insights and practical tips on the planning, planting and protection phases of reforestation, based on his 20+ years of experience. Wayne explains why understanding your site's specific conditions and weed pressures is crucial before planting begins, and why selecting the right species in the right place with the right protection makes all the difference long-term.“We've got to get away from this notion of planting once and walking away. We've got to find the ability and the resourcing to be involved with that site for potentially decades to come.”So whether you're restoring coastal dunes, creating forest corridors or planting for numerous other reasons, this episode will provide key insights to improve your native planting outcomes and turn your project into a viable habitat.Here are some of the key topics we discussed:Why proper planning is critical for your planting to succeed.The importance of understanding your site's unique conditions and identifying potential threats before planting.Essential next steps after planting your pioneer species to create conditions for forest succession.Why maintenance is the most overlooked yet crucial aspect of successful plantings.How to monitor whether your planting is on track to succeed.The main reasons why native tree plantings fail.Top tips for running volunteer planting days.And much more…👩About Wayne:Having moved to Aotearoa, NZ in 2001, Wayne quickly developed a passion for our unique biodiversity. Since starting his contracting business in 2002, he has been fortunate enough to work in the community conservation space, supporting and guiding conservation groups and landowners to achieve their conservation goals. This has helped him to develop a broad understanding of coastal and forest ecology and the challenges we face in caring for them. He is a self-confessed native plant geek and has a particular interest in native forest establishment. Wayne has held roles with the QEII National Trust, Trees that Count, Tane’s Tree Trust, Bay Conservation Alliance, and Whakatāne Kiwi Trust.🔗Learn more:Tane’s Tree Trust: www.tanestrees.org.nzTrees That Count: www.treesthatcount.co.nz 🎙️Learn more about the podcast at www.conservationamplified.org
It’s been estimated that more than 2.5 million feral cats call Aotearoa NZ home.2.5 million!That's big numbers, making them a growing problem and an increasing threat…These aren’t your typical domestic house cat. They are wild animals, and they’re having a devastating impact on our native wildlife."Comparing a feral cat to a domestic cat is like comparing a wolf to a Labrador"Feral cats predate on all kinds of taonga species - from lizards to bats to kiwi - and their numbers are increasing every year. In one documented case, a single feral cat killed 107 endangered short-tailed bats in just two weeks.And their impact extends far beyond predation events, affecting everyday lives through attacks on pet cats, toxoplasmosis in livestock, and even further endangering Māui dolphins through disease transmission.So, what’s stopping us from solving this problem? There are many reasons, but our emotional connection to pet cats is a big one.In this episode of the People Helping Nature Podcast, John Bissell, owner of Backblocks Environmental Management and National Predator Control Advisor for Save the Kiwi, shares a balanced perspective on the feral cat debate in Aotearoa New Zealand.While John strongly supports people's right to own pet cats, he draws a clear distinction between domestic companions and their wild counterparts.Here are some of the things we discussed in this illuminating chat:The definition of feral cats vs. domestic pet cats.How trail camera footage reveals that feral cats are everywhere in our landscape.How feral cats decimate endangered species populations.Feline toxoplasmosis impacts on farming and marine mammals.Respectful approaches to feral cat control in areas with pet cats present.How human emotion shapes our approach to different predator species.Tips for conservation groups navigating the feral cat topic with respect.And much more...👩About John:John Bissell is the owner of Backblocks Environmental Management, and he is also the National Predator Control Advisor for Save the Kiwi.John’s main area of mahi is in predator control and threatened species protection. His speciality is in finding and removing the one hard-to-get predator in a large landscape. These lessons have also helped him shape new methods and tricks to help him catch more.As well as boots-on-the-ground delivery, John’s role is increasingly centred around supporting and training people and projects in this line of work, and he is equally passionate about this side of his mahi. John refers to himself as a NZ predator hunter, and he will happily tell story after story of the many other good people out there doing the same.🔗Learn more:John’s website: www.bbem.co.nzJohn’s Instagram: www.instagram.com/nzpredatorhunterSave the Kiwi’s website: www.savethekiwi.nz🎙️Learn more about the podcast at www.conservationamplified.org
What happens when a whale or dolphin strands on a New Zealand beach? For over 50 years, Project Jonah has been the lifeline for these marine mammals in distress, pioneering rescue techniques that have contributed to global standards.Daren Grover, Project Jonah’s General Manager, reveals how this organisation evolved from successfully campaigning against the whaling industry in the 1970s to becoming leaders in marine mammal rescue. Through their nationwide network of 1000s of trained volunteers, Project Jonah is able to mobilise rapid responses to approximately 300 strandings every year.From the unique "whale trap" geography of Farewell Spit to the impacts of climate change on stranding patterns, Daren shares insights into why these events occur and how proper assessment and methodical response significantly improves welfare outcomes for stranded marine mammals.Beyond rescue operations, Project Jonah's work addresses broader conservation challenges. Daren outlines how everyday decisions - from responsible boating to reducing plastic waste - directly affects marine mammal welfare. He emphasises that conservation means "understanding our impacts and choosing to respond positively."Here are some of the key topics we discussed:- Project Jonah's remarkable 50-year evolution from campaigning against commercial whaling to pioneering marine mammal rescue approaches.- The diverse range of natural and human-induced causes behind cetacean strandings.- Why New Zealand's Farewell Spit has earned its reputation as a geographical "whale trap".- The critical actions that first responders take when they arrive at strandings.- Project Jonah’s marine mammal medic training programme.- How Project Jonah mobilises its network of trained volunteers throughout the country when strandings are reported.- How stranding patterns are becoming less predictable with climate change.- The intriguing possibility of AI decoding whale communication in the coming years.- Simple actions anyone can take to support marine mammal conservation.👩 About Daren:Daren Grover is the General Manager of Project Jonah, the marine mammal welfare charity saving whales and dolphins in New Zealand. Daren is an expert in marine mammal stranding response, with hands-on experience in mass stranding events and extensive emergency management training.He collaborates closely with New Zealand’s Department of Conservation, providing field support and staff training to uphold best practices. A dedicated educator, Daren trains several hundred volunteers annually, strengthening NZ's national stranding response network. His leadership spans operational logistics, welfare strategies, and multi-agency coordination for mass stranding events.🔗Learn more:- Project Jonah’s website: www.projectjonah.org.nz- Facebook: www.facebook.com/projectjonah- Instagram: www.instagram.com/projectjonahnz🎙️Learn more about the podcast at www.conservationamplified.org
What New Zealand predator flies at up to 200km/hour yet is now rarer than our iconic kiwi? With fewer than 8,000 kārearea (NZ’s endemic falcon) remaining, these aerial hunters serve as crucial indicators of our ecosystem's health.For 32+ years, the Wingspan Bird of Prey Centre in Rotorua has been at the forefront of protecting these remarkable predators and reversing their decline.In this episode of the People Helping Nature Podcast, General Manager Ineke Milner, reveals how Wingspan blends 4,000-year-old falconry practices with cutting-edge conservation techniques.Through Wingspan’s four main focuses (rehabilitation, research, education, and advocacy), they're creating meaningful connections between people and these often-misunderstood birds.Despite their fearless hunting prowess, kārearea face serious threats. Introduced predators like feral cats target their nests at night, while habitat loss and even deliberate persecution further challenge their survival.The kārearea's unique adaptability as both a forest and open-country hunter has been their saving grace as forests have diminished. As Ineke explains, this rare dual-hunting ability has helped them adapt where other species couldn't - though their numbers still remain low.Here are some of the key topics we discussed:The five bird of prey species in New Zealand and their conservation statusWhy raptors function as crucial indicators of overall ecosystem healthThe 4,000-year history of falconry and its surprising connection to conservationHow Wingspan uses falconry techniques to rehabilitate injured birdsThe major threats facing NZ falcons, including introduced species and human persecutionSimple actions anyone can take to support raptor conservationWhy conservation ultimately connects to human wellbeing👩 About Ineke:A passionate advocate for wildlife and conservation with a journey spanning from the lush landscapes of Rotorua to the far reaches of the globe, Ineke has a deep-rooted love for nature.She contributed to Wingspan in earlier years, serving as raptor PR and aviculturist, where she honed her expertise in caring for ngā manu. Her time at International Wildlife Consultants (Wales) further solidified her commitment to conservation efforts on an international scale. Notably, she proudly represented NZ at the 2014 International Falconry Festival (UAE), showcasing her expertise and passion for avian conservation.In addition to her conservation work, Ineke has made significant contributions to education as a science/biology teacher and as assistant head of the science department. Her devotion to outdoor education has allowed her to instil a love for nature in students, inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards.Ineke's career is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and a deep connection to the natural world. She is excited to lead Wingspan into the next chapter of its journey.🔗Learn more:Wingspan’s website: www.wingspan.co.nzFacebook: www.facebook.com/WingspanNewZealandInstagram: www.instagram.com/wingspan.nz🎙️Learn more about the podcast at www.conservationamplified.org
What if we viewed Earth not as a resource to be managed, but as our home to be cherished?In this profound conversation, Rob McGowan (Pā Ropata), leader of the Tīwaiwaka movement and respected rongoā practitioner, reveals a transformative set of enduring principles for healing our relationship with Papatūānuku (mother earth).Rob challenges conventional thinking about environmental action, revealing how small, mindful changes in our daily lives can collectively reshape the way we interact with nature. By shifting from a "me" to a "we" worldview, we can create a future where both people and planet thrive together.This episode illuminates a pathway forward that's grounded in hope, respect for life at all scales, and the understanding that true wellbeing emerges from healing our connections - with each other and with the natural world.“Ka ora te whenua, ka ora te tangata” - when the land is well, the people are well.Tīwaiwaka is based on these 6 core principles, which we discussed in depth during the podcast:Te Whenua, Papatūānuku, is the source of all life. She is the mother: Caring for the whenua is the first priority. Everything else must be measured against thisWe are not the centre of the Universe but we are part of it: All living creatures are our brothers and sisters, and we are the potiki, the last born. We must care for themThe mauri is the web of connections that sustains life: If any of those connections are weakened or broken, the mauri is less able to sustain life. The integrity of the mauri has greater priority than any individual or speciesTe tangata, people, are not the masters of the mauri; we are part of the mauri and embraced by it: Our role is to care for the mauriNo individual person is more important than any other: Each must contribute what they have to offer and receive what they need to be wellWe give special care to the tiniest living creatures: Even though they are too small to be seen they are the foundation that keeps and sustains all life. Caring for them is caring for the mauri. This is the source of wellness, of sustainability👩 About Rob:Rob McGowan (Pā Ropata) is a respected rongoā practitioner and leader of the Tīwaiwaka movement who has dedicated decades to understanding and sharing native plant knowledge and conservation principles.Through his work with kaumatua and kuia on the Whanganui River, he gained deep insights into traditional Māori knowledge and its relevance for modern conservation challenges.A recipient of the Queen's Service Medal and the Loder Cup Award, Pā is a co-founder of Tane's Tree Trust, former chair of the Bay of Plenty Conservation Board, and advisor to numerous government agencies, Māori tribal authorities, and rongoā Māori related initiatives. To this day, he continues to teach, speak, and advocate for approaches to conservation that honour both traditional knowledge and modern science.🔗Learn more:Tīwaiwaka’s website: www.tiwaiwaka.nzFacebook: www.facebook.com/tiwaiwakanz🎙️Learn more about the podcast at www.conservationamplified.org
Can poor-quality predator control be worse than no control at all? According to one of New Zealand's leading trapping experts, the answer might surprise you.In this episode of the People Helping Nature Podcast, John Bissell, owner of Backblocks Environmental Management and National Predator Control Advisor for Save the Kiwi, challenges conventional thinking about removing introduced predators.Drawing from decades of experience as a professional predator hunter and conservation specialist, John reveals why treating them as intelligent adversaries - rather than assuming they'll blindly walk into any trap - is crucial for success.Through real-world examples and trail camera observations, he demonstrates how careful attention to detail and understanding animal behaviour can dramatically improve conservation outcomes.It's not just about how many traps we set. It's about approaching each trap setup with strategy, care, and monitoring the outcomes to understand if we’re removing enough to protect our native taonga species.Here are some of the things we discussed:Why quality in predator control matters more than quantityThe importance of thinking like a predator to catch oneHow trap-shy animals develop and why they're a growing challengeThe importance of baseline monitoring and measuring outcomesHow trail cameras are revealing surprising predator behaviours and intelligenceWhy proper trap setup and maintenance is crucial for successThe transformation of Wellington's biodiversity through effective predator controlTips for community groups starting predator control projectsWhy combining old-world skills with new technology is crucialAnd much more…👩About John:John Bissell is the owner of Backblocks Environmental Management Ltd, and he is also the National Predator Control Advisor for Save the Kiwi. John is adamant that removing introduced predators to protect one species, like kiwi, also benefits many other native species at place.John’s main area of mahi is in predator control and threatened species protection. His speciality is in finding and removing the one hard-to-get predator in a large landscape, and he has a good number of successful resolutions under his belt. The lessons he has learned ‘chasing one’, have also helped him shape new methods and tricks to help him catch more.As well as boots-on-the-ground delivery, John’s role is increasingly centred around supporting and training people and projects in this line of work, and he is equally passionate about this side of his mahi.🔗Learn more:John’s website: www.bbem.co.nzJohn’s Instagram: www.instagram.com/nzpredatorhunterSave the Kiwi’s website: www.savethekiwi.nz🎙️Learn more about the podcast at www.conservationamplified.org