Whitikau Paul Nuku-Rio (Ngā Rauru, Ngā Ruahinerangi, Ngāti Ruanui, Rangitaawhi, Ahitahi, Ratana Morehu) is the newest member to our team.
He is part of Haumanuhia te Hononga Taiao which is a partnership programme between Te Korowai o Ngāruahine and the Taranaki Mounga Project.
Supporting the restoration of his tupuna maunga is very important to Whitikau. He has gained valuable experience in predator control, bush safety and navigation. We are grateful to him and his passion for te reo Māori, mau rakau and his work with rangatahi.
He is also currently studying towards his NZ Certificate in Pest Operations Level 3 from Western Institute of Technology at Taranaki (WITT).
Whitikau’s role is supported by the Predator Free 2050 Trust Apprentice programme.