Wild Hero 2023: Celebrating Jim Fyfe

After nearly 40 years protecting Otago's coast and marine wildlife, Jim Fyfe was named Wild Dunedin's 2023 Wild Hero.

A Coastal Biodiversity Otago ranger and longtime Department of Conservation ranger, Jim was honoured for nearly four decades of dedication to protecting coastal biodiversity, marine wildlife and the threatened New Zealand sea lion (rāpoka/pakake).

Jim's passion for the ocean began in Northland, where he grew up snorkelling and diving. After completing a zoology degree in 1989, he moved to Dunedin on what was meant to be a two-year contract with the Department of Conservation. More than three decades later, Otago's coastline had become his home.

Throughout his career, Jim has played a leading role in monitoring sea lions, protecting breeding sites, responding to stranded and injured animals, and helping coastal communities learn how to safely coexist with one of the world's rarest sea lion species.

His work has coincided with the remarkable return of New Zealand sea lions to the Otago coast, helping protect breeding populations and building greater public understanding of these curious and charismatic animals.

As important as his work with wildlife has been his work with people. Jim has spent decades educating beachgoers, supporting local communities and fostering a culture of respect for the wildlife that shares our coastline.

Reflecting on receiving the award, Jim said, "I love my work. I love the coastal communities I'm working with, so it is a really great privilege and an honour to be recognised by them."

His quiet leadership, deep knowledge and unwavering commitment have made a lasting impact on marine conservation in Otago and inspired countless people to care for the coast and its wildlife.

The Wild Hero Award celebrates those who make an extraordinary contribution to protecting nature, and few people embody that spirit more than Jim Fyfe.

A true legend.