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Postal Address:
PO Box 13 678,
Christchurch 8141,
New Zealand
Meet Hannah Giess
Job:
Environmental Scientist.
Job description:
Delivering environmental outcomes through the life cycle of a project – identifying key environmental constraints; writing resource consent applications; and managing compliance responsibilities.
Work background:
I started working as an Environmental Planner on the Waterview Project in December 2014 and have been here ever since! I also write the odd resource consent application for various activities around Auckland and have been involved in the re-write of Auckland Council's new Erosion and Sediment Control Guidelines.
Favourite part of job:
Reducing the impact of construction and development on the environment.
Through implementing environmental controls in our projects we’re making a positive difference to the natural environment. Whether it’s reducing the amount of sediment running into the waterways to improve water quality, or planting native tree species and creating habitats for wildlife -every bit counts to restoring the natural environment.
Along the way I educate others about the importance of looking after our environment which is always rewarding!
Least favourite part of job:
Unfortunately the best time to see what’s going on with sediment runoff onsite is when it’s raining. Which often means becoming wet and muddy!
What I am working on now:
I’m currently working as an environmental planner on the Waterview Connection project. As part of this role I ensure environmental compliance is reached for the construction of the project, and our environmental impact is minimised and or mitigated!
A quick story about a job well done:
The construction of the motorway required realignment of a straight concrete-channelled section of Oakley creek. When moving the alignment of the creek we were able to restore it to a more natural state with lots of bends, rocks, pools, ripples and native plants.
A (humorous) story about a job that went badly and what you learned:
We had to pump out a muddy section of a small stream to install a temporary culvert. However, the end of the hose was not secured down when we started pumping so showered all the workers with thick black smelly mud and water. Always secure the end of the pump!On a positive note, we were able to relocate four eels out of this area and release them back upstream and out of the temporary construction area.
Qualifications:
Bachelor of Science (honours) double major in Geography and Environmental Science.
Interests outside work:
Being outdoors – lots of tramping & camping! I also enjoy playing social sports with friends and I love baking!
Meet Hannah Giess, an Environmental Scientist, working for the Well Connected Alliance. Image: NZTA.