Fish & Game appoints new Hawke’s Bay regional manager

Fish & Game has appointed Ben Pacholek as its Hawke’s Bay regional manager.

Ben brings more than 30 years’ experience in fishing, hunting and environmental and wildlife protection across New Zealand, Australia and the UK.

He began his career in his native Scotland as a trout and salmon fishing guide, then worked in hospitality management and as an estate deer stalker. He first came to New Zealand in 2005, working as a shepherd in Central Otago.

He then spent five years in agricultural contracting in the UK before joining Police Scotland, where he served for 16 years - initially as a dog handler and for the final seven years as the service’s Wildlife Liaison Officer.

Ben returned to New Zealand this year to be closer to his wife’s family in Hawke’s Bay.

He says the regional manager role is a perfect fit for his skills and experience.

“This role brings together my experience as a wildlife liaison officer and my passion for the outdoors. I’m a very keen deer hunter. I first picked up a fishing rod when I was three and have been hooked ever since.

“Fish & Game does fantastic work that benefits the wider community, not just people who fish and hunt. I see this role as helping people enjoy the outdoors and inspiring the next generation to pick up a rod or go duck hunting. It’s a chance to experience how hunting and angling go hand in hand with conservation and environmental benefits.”

He will take up the role on 2 November.