Jonty Rutherford

Talking with Jonty Rutherford it’s clear he is an enthusiast, and he’s certainly enthusiastic about his job as co-ordinator for the Moehau Environment Group (MEG).

Because the group carries out predator control over 10,500 hectares of mostly private land adjoining the Department of Conservation’s Coromandel kiwi sanctuary, a big part of the role involves talking – with landowners, government agencies and local communities.

It also involves sharing the expertise and experience gained by MEG with other small community kiwi groups, and supporting them with resources and administration.

A part of the role Jonty especially enjoys is working with volunteers and schools, getting them involved in hands-on kiwi conservation projects and spreading the verve. A group taken on a class trip to Maungatautari, in the Waikato, were inspired to begin a study of invertebrates (kiwi food) at the Driving Creek sanctuary, established near the school by well-known potter and train enthusiast, Barry Brickell.

While the rest of New Zealand is on vacation in January, we should think of Jonty and the MEG team. They’ll be in the Coromandel camp grounds, in the bush and on the coast, running more than 20 conservation-themed events for holidaying Kiwi kids and their parents.

Why kiwi?

When his last contract in the broadcasting industry ended, Jonty went looking for something that fitted better with his personal values, and the MEG co-ordinator’s role came up. ‘I’m driven by broader environmental concerns than just kiwi, but they are an important step because they are one of New Zealand’s more vulnerable species. This job came with kiwi, if you like, and they are a great taonga. By doing what’s needed to help them we are helping all the other parts of the forest as well. New Zealander’s love for these wonderful creatures means that kiwi have the power get people active in conservation.’

High point

Two things stand out for Jonty. First is working with volunteers, be they the dedicated members of the MEG committee or international eco-tourists. ‘I’m blown away by the attitude of these people. The international volunteers come from all parts of the compass and they end up cleaning out rat traps, with a smile on their face.’

Second, Jonty loves the educational side of his role. ‘Taking a field trip to Maungatautari with kids from the area school, and for them to begin their own project, is great. They’re receptive, which is so important. As they grow up, the future of kiwi and New Zealand’s other natural treasures will be in their hands.’

Low point

Low points usually come with four legs. He’s a bit down at the moment, with two pitbulls on the loose in the Colville area. ‘They’re still out there roaming in the core of our kiwi area. It gives me a heavy heart.’

Thoughts for the future

Jonty thinks a big corner has already been turned for kiwi. ‘People have mobilised in the last eight-to-ten years all around the country. They realise that kiwi are flagship beasties and we need to be vigilant and work hard and bring more people in with us.

‘The real future lies with kids. That’s why trips like Maungatautari are so important.’

Kiwi Characteristics

Small, flightless and largely nocturnal, the kiwi’s characteristics make it unique in the bird world.

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Community Efforts

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Did You Know?

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