From Cavewoman to Conservationist
A Year with the Karioi Project
This past year, we had the privilege of working alongside an incredible intern whose journey with the Karioi Project has been nothing short of inspiring. From starring as a cavewoman in our fundraising video—hilariously demonstrating the challenges rangers face scaling the maunga—to conquering personal fears and gaining invaluable conservation skills, Summer’s time with us has been full of growth, learning, and plenty of laughter.
For Summer, the internship wasn’t just about predator control and seabird monitoring—it was about developing a toolkit for life. Conservation work challenged her physically, mentally, emotionally, and even spiritually, shaping her understanding of hauora in a way that will stay with her far beyond Karioi.
She thrived in the solitude of nature, relishing the moments where it was just her and the whenua, free from distractions. And of course, working with an amazing team (that’s us!) made the experience even more rewarding.
Summer’s time with the Karioi Project gave her hands-on experience in seabird monitoring, setting traps, track clearing, and toxin work. While she’s still exploring where her path will take her, she leaves with a solid foundation in conservation skills and a deep appreciation for the work. It’s been amazing to see her passion grow, and we have no doubt that whatever direction she chooses, her time here will serve her well.
One of Summer’s standout memories dates back to her high school days, when she first started volunteering with us. It was a pivotal time—one that allowed her to explore her interests and feel a sense of belonging in a team that valued authenticity.
A particularly meaningful moment was deploying traps out at Te Toto, where she learned the power of listening to her own needs. A simple comment from a teammate—“If you don’t have it in you, you don’t have to keep going”—gave her the confidence to honor her limits. It’s a small but powerful lesson, one that speaks to the supportive culture we strive to cultivate at Karioi.
Summer, from all of us at the Karioi Project, thank you for your dedication, your kindness, and your incredible spirit. We can’t wait to see where your journey takes you next!
