About us

BCom International Business, BA Art History, MCom in Entrepreneurship (Otago). Leads the hoiho recovery programme, ensuring strategic priorities are met as part of Te Kaweka Takohaka mō te Hoiho 2019-2029. Represents the trust on the Hoiho Governance Board ensuring collaboration with key partners.

Claudia (Te Rarawa, Te Aupōuri) has a background in environmental campaigning, publishing and marketing. She is passionate about connecting people with the things that they care about whether that be a great book, an inspiring event or the treasured hoiho. At the trust, Claudia communicates our work to funders, so that our frontline field staff have the resources and time to carry out their vital conservation work.

Diploma in Veterinary Nursing. Emma is the Rehab Co-ordinator for Rakiura, where she cares for underweight hoiho during moult season. Having come from a vet nursing background, she now works in conservation during the off season. She feels it is a privilege to be able to work with these special birds.

BSc Ecology and Biodiversity. Has a background in avian conservation, with experience across both captive and field settings. Previously interned on the Bird Team at Auckland Zoo, gaining hands-on experience with breeding, husbandry, and endangered species programmes. Participated in species recovery programmes such as the Tara-iti Recovery Programme, Operation Nest Egg, and Breed for Release projects. Has a deep commitment to protecting Aotearoa’s unique wildlife.

BSc Marine Science (Otago). Prior experience as a Laboratory Technician for NIWA, and Administrative Vice-President for the OUSA. Currently covering the Office Administrator role whilst Caitlin goes on parental leave for 12 months. Loves supporting the rewarding work the Yellow-eyed Penguin Trust team do!

BSc Zoology (Victoria). Grew up in Hawke's Bay, studied Radiography at Waikato Hospital, worked as a radiographer in Hawkes Bay and Dunedin. Took 23 years to get a job in zoology/biology field, but is excited to now be here!

Studied Equine as a sport-horse assistant, and began a role with Riding for the Disabled. Seeking new challenges, McKenzie ventured into a role involving wildlife. Working with animals has always been a passion, nurturing a diverse range for the creatures found throughout her life. McKenzie finds immense satisfaction in supporting our conservation mission and assisting colleagues with our rewarding work.

MA (Dist.), PhD. Wenna's PhD research focused on bridging holistic environmentalism and individualistic animalism by centering the values of te ao Māori. Her continued research considers the responsibilities we carry as embedded individuals in a multispecies world, which carries through to her work as our Programme Coordinator. Wenna is committed to exploring how justice can be enacted with care to foster sustainable and healthy relationships within a decision-making model she calls the Unfurling Koru.