Fergus Chinnery

Ecologist
Ōtepoti Dunedin 📍

Fergus joined Whirika in April 2026, bringing experience in biodiversity monitoring across a range of Aotearoa’s ecosystems. His background includes fauna and flora surveys in native forests, vegetation monitoring in tussock grasslands and alpine communities, and monitoring native species and pest populations on offshore islands. 

He holds a BSc majoring in Ecology and Biodiversity and an MSc in Botany, with a particular interest in vegetation communities, threatened plants, and practical monitoring approaches that support restoration and conservation outcomes. Since joining Whirika, Fergus has been involved in setting up monitoring for covenant vegetation communities and supporting threatened plant monitoring work. 

Fergus is motivated by a deep appreciation for Aotearoa’s native ecosystems and the opportunity to help protect and restore biodiversity. Outside of work, he is happiest spending time in nature, especially surfing and tramping. 

Qualifications:‍

• Master of Botany, University of Otago (2026)

• BSc (Ecology and Biodiversity), University of Waikato (2023)
  
  

Get In Touch!
fergus.chinnery@whirika.co.nz
027 467 7721