Episode Description
My guest this episode is Kayla Kingdon-Bebb, Chief Executive of WWF New Zealand, and a passionate advocate for biodiversity, climate action, and the role of indigenous communities in conservation.
Originally from Canada, Kayla grew up exploring forests and fjords before moving to Aotearoa more than 15 years ago. We talk about her first tramps in New Zealand, what makes the Heaphy Track so special, her love of the takahe, and how her experiences with grizzly bears reshaped her views on human–wildlife connection.
Kayla also shares insights into WWF’s work on ocean conservation, the challenge of bycatch, and why New Zealand’s hut network is such a national treasure.
It’s a wide-ranging conversation about adventure, purpose, and protecting what makes Aotearoa unique.