Micheal Hatch

“My Fijian Samoan ethnicity and Pasifika ancestry, as well as my professional life, pushed me to pursue a Master of Science in Biosecurity and Conservation.

“Growing up in the islands gives you a very different perspective on land, forests, oceans, and every organism we share these resources with. My career as an entomology diagnostic technician also taught me about the very real threats these same resources face from exotic and alien invasive species.

“I wanted a programme which examined the importance of biosecurity in this context, and also focused on the conservation of our unique and vulnerable native flora and fauna.

“This programme has a wide array of courses and has given me the opportunity to experience the magnitude and significance of the biosecurity, biodiversity and conservation work done here in Aotearoa.

"I’ve had the opportunity to network with future employers, such as the Ministry of Primary Industries, Department of Conservation and Manaaki Whenua-Landcare Research.

“The Tuākana programme has also helped me to expand my network and meet other Pasifika students. All my tutors and mentors have been supportive and accommodating, providing me with endless advice and educational expertise.

“If you’re the type of person that’s interested in biosecurity, biodiversity, and conservation and into the outdoorsy stuff, then this is the programme for you. There’s a variety of invigorating papers to choose from that will allow you to partake in field assessments, field trips, internships, lectures, and tutorials, so there’s a great field and coursework balance.

“Moreover, this programme equips you with the skills, experience and confidence to prepare you for the industry. I unreservedly recommend taking up this programme.”