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Two Decades of Field Experience
Before establishing EcologistNZ, Dawn, built and led a high-performing pest management team delivering consistent results across residential, commercial and large scale environments.
Dawn developed structured protocols covering assessment, treatment, monitoring, and reporting—ensuring that work was not only effective, but repeatable and accountable.
Training was focused on:
accurate identification of pest activity
understanding environmental drivers
applying control methods correctly and safely
maintaining clear, professional communication with clients
This experience now provides the foundations to EcologistNZ—where every programme is designed with the same level of structure, clarity, and long-term thinking.
Specialised Programme Development
In the media Dawns work has been recognised for its contribution to practical, effective pest management in sensitive urban environments.
For more than two decades, Dawn has stalked her prey in the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, just meters from the city’s hospital and the Canterbury Museum.
Her former company, Elite Pest Control, is contracted by Christchurch City Council to patrol the ornamental gardens at night about twice a month and shoot any possums she can find.
She has personally removed over 400 possums using high powered air rifles.
Internationally Recognised Professional
Internationally Recognised Professional
Another reason to choose ecologistNZ is a career recognised at international industry level.
Dawn Hendrikse was selected as a finalist in the Women in Pest Management Excellence Awards, recognising her contribution to the pest management industry in New Zealand.
It acknowledges a commitment to raising professional standards, supporting and mentoring others in the industry, and advancing practical, sustainable pest management approaches.
With over two decades of hands on experience, Dawn organically built a reputation for combining field expertise with leadership, education, innovation and recognising ecosystem services.
This level of recognition reinforces what clients can expect from EcologistNZ
A high standard of work and customer service backed by real experience that's respected within the industry
During her time on Pest Management Association of New Zealand (PMANZ) council, Dawn supported the growth of individuals and their professionalism in the field.
Her work involved assessing, mentoring, and training technicians already operating in the field, as well as those starting their own pest management businesses. Guiding individuals through real-world challenges, helping them develop practical skills, and ensuring they understood how to deliver safe, effective, and responsible pest management.
Emphasising accurate assessment, informed decision-making, and long-term thinking rather than short-term fixes. Dawn supported others to build confidence, capability, and professionalism in their own roles and operations.
This experience now underpins ecologistNZ, where every service is delivered with the same level of structure, clarity, and commitment to getting the desired results.
Formal Training and Academic Foundation
New Zealand Certificate in Pest Operations (Level 3) Urban Pest Control
This programme provides the Urban Pest Management (UPM) industry with competent technicians who have the skills and knowledge required to safely carry out pest management in built environments with limited supervision.
NMIT Nelson
NMIT Nelson
Predator Trapping Methods - Delivered in partnership with DOC and Nmit, this course provided the knowledge and skills to create and manage effective pest control programmes on a large scale in line with best practice.
BSc Conservation and
Ecology Major
BSc Conservation and
Ecology Major
This three-year degree major offered a firm grounding in all the appropriate sciences, as well as important practical skills.
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