Avian & Wildlife Ecology

Our ecologists work closely with the project delivery teams to review all available options and provide the best hazard management outcomes for clients. 

Our team of expert ecologists and environmental scientists specialises in managing human–wildlife conflict in complex environments such as transport, infrastructure, and energy developments. Where human needs and wildlife habitats overlap, we provide science-based solutions that support safety, sustainability, and biodiversity protection. We analyse the relationship between people, land use, and wildlife using ecological surveys, real-time and historical GIS data, and holistic land management strategies. Our work supports airports, airlines, private landowners, and councils with both practical solutions and regulatory services.

From habitat and avifauna assessments to innovative wildlife hazard management plans, we understand the unique challenges of aviation and high-risk environments. Collaboration is central to our approach. We work closely with clients to deliver effective, values-driven outcomes that meet both project goals and regulatory requirements.

Services that we provide:

Wildlife Hazard Management Plans

Development, review, and audit of comprehensive plans to manage wildlife risks, particularly in aviation/ wind and solar farm environments

Habitat Assessments & Avifauna Surveys

Detailed evaluations of ecosystems and bird populations to inform risk and conservation strategies

Environmental Monitoring & Reporting

Ongoing data collection and analysis to support compliance and adaptive management

Risk Assessments & Technical Consultation

Expert advice for airports, councils, and developers seeking building or land use consent within ‘airport zones’

Bird Strike Risk Mitigation

Strategic habitat management and ecological restoration to manage wildlife strike incidents

Compliance, Permitting & Legal Support

Assistance with regulatory approvals, resource consent, and expert court evidence

Council Plan Reviews

Technical input and review of district or regional plans with ecological implications

Regulatory & Legislative Advice

Guidance for landowners and managers on navigating environmental regulations and obligations

Assessments of Environmental Effects (AEE) and Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA)

Preparation and review of AEEs and EcIAs to support resource consent applications

Ecological Remote Sensing

Use of advanced geospatial technologies to assess environmental conditions and track ecological change

  • New Zealand Aviation Wildlife Hazard Management Group (NZAWHG)

  • Our own Lizzie Civil facilitates and chairs the NZAWHG on behalf of the Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand (CAA). The NZAWHG has been established for 7 years and comprises a group of airports, airlines, pilots, airways, consultants, and equipment suppliers related to the aviation sector within Aotearoa New Zealand. The group works together to enhance aviation and wildlife safety through, legislation, education, best practice, technological advancements, and ongoing support to members of the NZAWHG. 

Our Avian and Wildlife Ecology Experts

PDP Staff Member Lizzie Civil

Lizzie Civil

Service Leader
PDP's Tea Eugenio

Teo Eugenio