Our TEAM

Antony Simpson, General Manager

Antony and his family have been living on Stewart Island for several years,  having been drawn here by their love of the outdoors and the opportunities for hunting and diving.   As GM he is responsible for preventing rats, cats, possums and deer from gaining access to the Reserve, and to detect and remove them when they do occasionally manage to make their way around the ends of the fence.

Antony also looks after the education centre and over time will develop walking tracks and other facilities to support education, research and ecotourism activities within the Reserve.

In Antony's own words...

"I came to this work at the Reserve because I believe in what we are doing and achieving.  The challenge we have is to make this sanctuary a better place for our outstanding bird life and the forests that support them,

Tiakina nga manu,
kaora  te ngahere.
Kiaora te ngahere,
Kaora nga manu.

Look after the birds
and the forest flourishes.
If the forest flourishes
the birds flourish.

And to share this with all the people who visit here to learn, or study, or enjoy the wonder of it all."  

+64 21 949 960 | antony@mamakupoint.nz

Rachel Thompson, Funding Manager

Rachel is passionate about the conservation of Mamaku Point, with a particular focus on the flora, having just overseen the planting of some 14,000 native seedlings across the remaining 14 hectares of rewilding former farmland.

Rachel is responsible for all our funding applications.

+64 21 783 045 | rachel@mamakupoint.nz

Ernie Mason, Biosecurity Ranger

One of the most experienced bushman and predator control operators around, Ernie is an invaluable member of the Mamaku Point team. Ernie’s primary responsibility is the regular upkeep of our hundreds of bait stations, but he is also frequently to be seen clearing biosecurity lines, chopping firewood, clearing gorse and a myriad other jobs around the property.

Matt Hare, Biosecurity Ranger

Matt is a Rakiura local who is enthusiastic about conservation and the unique environment of Rakiura.

As the grandson of previous owners, Derek & Pat Turnbull, Mamaku Point has a special significance in his life, with his children being the fourth generation to explore and play within the property.

Matt brings a skill set from qualifications and experience spanning tourism, aquaculture, business management, and, in particular, the biodiversity of Rakiura as a former ranger with the Department of Conservation.

According to Matt the biggest asset he brings to the Reserve is his passion and care for conservation on Rakiura.