Welcome Jen!

After putting the iwi’s new Taiao position on hold last year due to Covid-19, we are pleased to welcome Dr Jen Skilton into the role. Jen started work last month and is based in the Whakatū office.

Tēnā koutou

My name is Jen Skilton, and I am honoured to be Ngāti Apa ki te Rā Tō’s new Taiao Advisor. I grew up in Nelson and spent my childhood making the most of all the Te Tauihu region has to offer. I have a particular affiliation to the Nelson Lakes region and have spent a lot of time in the area, particularly around Rotoroa.

Following a 10-year stint away from Nelson, I returned seven years ago with my husband Rob in tow. Together we have two young children: Piper, 3, and Flynn, who is almost 1.

Professionally, I am an ecologist and undertook my PhD research in estuarine restoration. I have a particular passion for aquatic ecology and have experience working in both freshwater and marine ecosystems. I feel strongly about the implementation of effective management strategies to sustain and protect New Zealand’s natural assets.

I look forward to getting to know you and learning about your views and aspirations for the environmental resources within Ngāti Apa ki te Rā Tō’s rohe. As part of my role, I will be developing a Taiao Strategy and this will involve identifying issues, developing key objectives and implementing environmental management measures effectively. My vision is to create a clear, innovative and effective strategy and I look forward to your input in this process.

Ngā mihi nui

Jen