Abi Cunninghame

Project Manager

As Project Manager for Pest Free Howick Ward, I’m proud to lead a passionate team working to protect and restore our local environment. With a background in Biodiversity, Conservation, Animal Welfare, Zoology, Ancient History and a Master’s degree focused on the importance of greenspaces in primary schools, I’m driven by the belief that connecting people, especially young people, with nature is key to long-term change. I’m here to grow our impact, support our amazing community, and keep inspiring others to care for and protect Aotearoa’s native biodiversity.

Ethan McCormick

Fieldwork and Cadetship Coordinator

I have been with the PFHW team since 2020 and am enthusiastic about conservation and the community. I am especially passionate about inspiring the next generation of conservationists in local schools as part of the PFHW cadetship programme.

Alex Parker

Conservation Field Specialist

I began my pest eradication warpath with a school trapping project. Before long, some friends and I placed second in the annual moth pod competition, awarding us the life changing (at least in my opinion) opportunity to visit Rotoroa Island and experience the conservation efforts there first hand. This influenced me to go on and pursue conservation leadership positions at high school, which then led me to Pest Free Howick Ward.

Peter Stevens

Community Activator

Kia ora!

Stemming from a love of the natural world, I have developed a deep appreciation for our taonga, natural treasures, and Aotearoa’s wild beauty. As I pursue a Master’s in Biodiversity and Conservation, with a particular interest in insects, I draw on my scientific curiosity and passion to tackle environmental challenges head-on.

I hope to inspire our community to rise as kaitiakai, guardians of our natural environment. I believe people are central to conservation, and together we can transform dreams into action, supercharging our communities and restoring our landscapes.

Samantha van Ryn

Restoration Coordinator

I have been passionate about wildlife and conservation since I was young. I hold a recent Masters degree in Biosecurity and Conservation and hope to bring my experience in environmental science, ecological restoration and plant knowledge to the Pest Free Howick team. I enjoy research and learning about nature. I hope to encourage the wider community to get outdoors and consider our place in nature.

Nigel Zhang

Chinese Community Liaison Conservation Assistant

Kia ora! I’m Nigel Zhang, also known as “Mr Tuatara” to many students. I use the tuatara to engage young people on topics like habitat loss and climate change.

Since joining PFHW in 2020, I’ve focused on inspiring community action for a more sustainable future. I also coordinate the Climate Action Project (formerly the School Waste Minimisation Project), working closely with Howick’s local schools.