Boxing for Kea

Last year was the first I’d ever heard of the UCSA’s charity fight night. I remember watching on and thinking how lucky those participating were not only to be selected, but also to be representing and raising money for some incredible charities. After mulling over it for a few months this year, I decided to put my name forward and I have been fortunate enough to be selected for this year’s Charity Fight Night!

Those that have spent time in New Zealand’s great outdoors have surely encountered kea at some point. They often hang out around the Southern Alps, the ski fields or other high mountainous areas across the South Island. Unfortunately, anyone who knows kea will also know that our feathered friends aren’t doing too well. They’re often hit by cars or trucks, subject to lead poisoning and are easy targets for introduced predators such as stoats, cats, rats and possums.

Historically, kea were once subject to a Government bounty. This occurred in the 1870s and resulted in the death of over 150,000 birds. Combined, these factors have now led to kea being listed as nationally endangered, with an estimated population of only 3000–7000 birds. This year, I will be representing the Kea Conservation Trust, a charitable trust that works in partnership with communities to help research and raise awareness of the plight of our treasured kea.

Those with backgrounds or an interest in ecology will know that New Zealand biodiversity is not in the best shape. This is one fight we cannot lose and what better way to raise awareness than a fight itself?

If you love kea, please support me in raising money for the Kea Conservation Trust in this UCSA’s Charity Fight Night!