Meet the Boffa Miskell Ecology team: Tyla Kettle

Tyla’s work is informed by her passion for the water and interest in traditional knowledge. 

Tyla Kettle joined the Boffa Miskell Tauranga team in 2021 after completing a Master's of Science (Research) in Ecology and Conservation. With a broad base of knowledge across environmental sciences, marine science, earth science and biological science, much of Tyla's project work involves surveying and monitoring in both terrestrial and marine environments.

"Three years of my tertiary education was marine-specific, whilst one year was spent studying ecological science, exploring the freshwater and terrestrial space," says Tyla. "My heart lies in marine ecology; however, since starting at Boffa Miskell I have really enjoyed the terrestrial-based projects and hope to gain more knowledge in this area."

A childhood in rural Hamilton and Raglan inspired Tyla's interest in all things aquatic. "After growing up in and around the ocean — fishing, diving, and surfing — I had a keen interest to learn more, and I moved to Tauranga to study marine ecology."

As her studies were nearing completion, Tyla again looked back to her childhood and heritage. Her research project utilised matauranga Māori (traditional Māori knowledge) to map the historic distribution and abundance of shellfish in Waihi Estuary. In conjunction with this she carried out an impact assessment on pipi (Paphies australis shellfish) and estuary health, which then informed iwi environmental management plans.

"I have always wanted to integrate my passion for the ocean and marine ecology with my culture," she explains. "My grandad would often explain ways in which we should harvest shellfish, why we go to particular spots, and when the right time to harvest would be.

"From a very young age traditional Māori knowledge was passed down to me which is what I believe inspired me to pursue my Master's degree and take on the project I did."

Over the past two years, Tyla has undertaken ecological surveys and assessments on behalf of clients around the Bay of Plenty, including residential developers and local councils. She is part of the team of ecologists working on the Marine Parade Boardwalk in Mount Maunganui, and the pipi monitoring plan for Ports of Tauranga.

Unsurprisingly for someone who grew up close to world-renowned Manu Bay, Tyla spends much of her leisure time on the water. “I really enjoy surfing, and most of my weekends are spent travelling to wherever the waves are,” she says. “If it’s flat, then you’ll find me fishing or diving.”