New regional manager appointed for Otago Fish & Game

Otago Fish & Game Council has appointed Kat Hardisty as its new regional manager, bringing an experienced leader with strong local connections back to the region.

Ms Hardisty grew up in Evansdale, just north of Dunedin, and recently returned to the city with her partner and three children after several years in Wellington.

“What draws me most to working at Otago Fish & Game is the opportunity to contribute to an organisation with a strong community purpose — one that protects environments, supports recreational values, and advocates for the interests of current and future generations,” she said.

“Otago’s rivers, wetlands, lakes and coastal environments are central to the region’s identity, and I am looking forward to being part of an organisation dedicated to their protection and sustainable use.”

Ms Hardisty grew up spending time outdoors, tramping, camping and enjoying life on her family's lifestyle block. Her mother's family also has a farming background, with sheep, beef and deer farms around Kaiwera and Pukerau.

She attended Waitati Primary School and Otago Girls' High School before completing a computer science degree at the University of Otago.

After moving to Wellington, she began her career as a software engineer before moving into human-centred design and leadership roles. She has more than 15 years' experience leading diverse teams across government and the private sector.

Most recently, she worked at Te Uru Rākau – New Zealand Forest Service, where she led a multi-disciplinary team responsible for delivering public-facing information and service improvements across forestry and wood processing.

Otago Fish & Game Council chair Adrian McIntyre said the organisation was pleased to welcome Ms Hardisty as its new regional manager.

“We’re in a good position as a regional organisation and looking forward to the next chapter for Otago Fish & Game.

“Kat will bring fresh perspectives and leadership to the role, and we’re looking forward to having her on the team as we serve freshwater sports fishing anglers and game bird hunters and advocate for thriving habitats that support their recreational activities.”

Cr McIntyre said Ms Hardisty was appointed following a thorough recruitment process that attracted a strong field of candidates.

He thanked the organisation’s Central Otago-based operations manager, Jamie Ward, for leading the team in the interim after former chief executive Ian Hadland resigned in April.

Looking ahead, Ms Hardisty sees opportunities to grow participation in recreational fishing and game bird hunting, particularly among younger generations and people who may not have previously considered either activity.

Ensuring access to key fishing and hunting areas, advocating for healthy waterways and strengthening relationships with catchment groups, Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu, councils and landowners are also priorities.

She is looking forward to working with the council and staff to develop Otago Fish & Game's strategy and direction for the next 10 years.

Ms Hardisty starts in the role on Monday, November 16.