HUMANS OF ŌTAUTAHI: MIKE
“I studied at University of Canterbury. I’ve done a Master of Science, but it was actually in coastal management. My work experience was hands-on; I did a lot of physical stuff. I was an earthmover, a fisherman; sold nuts and bolts – all over the show, really, just trying to find the right job. And I think I’ve finally found it with this one. This is a dream job. A good mix of everything I like and enjoy; not one day is the same. And it comes with a house.
“The biggest challenge for me is the botany side of it. It’s not my strong point. Learning the multitude of species, the Latin names, and the science behind the propagation, but yeah, getting there. It’s something I can learn, and I have a great team around me.
“I don’t think many people realise how special Riccarton Bush is; how unique it is on a world scale; how old it is. I feel quite special that I’m ‘the Ranger’. It’s an amazing spot to be. You’re in the middle of town, but you quickly forget about it – until you hear a siren! It’s incredible. You can actually get lost in there, literally, but also just in your headspace. You can just leave everything at the gate.
“I have ambitious goals for the future of Riccarton Bush. I see it as the conservation heart of the city. It should be where everything starts, you know, trees, wildlife, and it all sort of branches out from here. I want to be reaching out, with the nursery, helping create green corridors to bring wildlife back not only to Riccarton Bush but all of Christchurch.
“I also want to do our bit for the predator-free NZ 2050 scheme. Again, Riccarton Bush is a perfect example of what can be achieved, and I would love to integrate with community groups and help with trap construction, placement and data collection.”