2025 Professional Promotions

Five ecologists have progressed to professional level. We're proud to recognise their growth in knowledge, professionalism, experience, and ability to foster exceptional client relationships.

Jonny Beech is based in the Whangārei office. He has experience working with community groups in the Whangārei area helping with pest control, bird, invertebrate and reptile monitoring, and is currently undertaking field surveys of wetland birds and reptiles and assessing the ecological values of proposed sites for solar farms in the North Island. He is a member of the New Zealand Ecology Society.

Cara-Lisa Schloots has been involved in various freshwater and terrestrial ecology projects. She has developed her vegetation survey and mapping skills, particularly in the context of assessing ecological impacts of proposed developments. Based in Christchurch, she is a Member of the New Zealand Plant Conservation Network and the Canterbury Botanical Society.

Vincent Jeon specialises in avifauna and has experience working on a variety of projects, including penguin and shorebird monitoring, baseline monitoring for proposed wind farms, airports, and wildlife sanctuaries. Part of the Wellington team, he completed his Master of Science degree on the stress physiology of sooty shearwaters and flesh-footed shearwaters; and developed a novel, non-invasive monitoring technique for fluttering shearwater chicks.

Kate Hornblow is based in Christchurch. Her main area of interest is river restoration and incorporating species interactions to improve ecological recovery. Kate’s experience ranges from detailed surveys for long-term monitoring projects, to high-level scoping assessments of potential development sites. She has experience with a range of field assessment methodologies, and associated reporting and data analysis.

Tara Harvey-Brown usually undertakes roles involves fieldwork and collecting ecological data. Her experience is largely around wetland delineation, freshwater ecology and lizard monitoring. This work allows her to carry out her passion for conserving and rejuvenating ecosystems throughout Aotearoa and working with others to reach a sustainable and practical outcome.

Boffa Miskell chief executive Kerry Gupwell says, “We congratulate these ecologists as they gain experience and move forward on their career path, and appreciate the commitment of our senior science team members in developing their skill-sets and proficiencies through mentoring and project work.”