I reside across the ditch in the Kaipara Hills, a sheep and beef farming area about 1.5hrs NW of Auckland. I’ve worked in the wider area of land management and conservation, mainly in communities and on islands since 1988. I’m an expert in nothing but a willing learning of everything. I love the land I live in and on and want it to be a better place for the next generation, so I am on a journey to motivate, inspire confidence in and teach others how to make a difference.

My heritage is important to me – my Grand dad was a kaumatua (elder) of Te Atiawa from Taranaki – he instilled in me a love for the land and its plants and animals. He was a peacemaker and the older I get the more important I see this to be as we battle away with divergent opinions on how we should manage the land when we just need to chill, think smart and divert the energy into collective action to reconnect people with the land.. Manaaki whenua, Manaaki tangata, Haere whakamua – care for the land, care for people, go forward.

Jo will be joined onstage by her Grandson Maximilian Reed. Maximilian is a Kiwi living in Meanjin / Brisbane undertaking the Masters of Environment course at Griffith University. His work has focused on current conservation shortcomings in the catchments around the Queensland Wet Tropics Bioregion and the Great Barrier Reef. During his study he had the opportunity to undertake two industry placements, allowing him to dip his toes into the world’s of climate policy and wildlife conservation.

Max has a deep love for the natural world and her mysteries. On his days off he can be found exploring the magic places South East Queensland with family and close friends. The hikes scattered throughout the Scenic Rim have been an excellent way to experience and foster love for the natural world. He hopes to be able to apply this love to improve and protect our natural world by continuing the work of current and previous environmental practitioners.