Enjoys North’s vibe

Richard Robbins, 41, wildlife enthusiast and project manager for Project Island Song. Lives in Russell.

What do you like best about the Far North?

The main reason I moved up here was for the habitat, the climate, the landscapes, and the people. The space, it’s that Northland time, it’s a different vibe.

How long have you lived here and where are you originally from?

I’ve lived in New Zealand for 17 years, with a six year stint in Auckland. I’ve now lived in Northland for 11 years, and I’m originally from Warwickshire in the UK.

What do you like least and how can we fix it?

There are too many trucks, the roads are getting very busy. We need better integrated transport.

What’s your favourite eatery?

The Gables restaurant in Russell. It’s got a good atmosphere, all the staff are really friendly.

Your highlight of the week?

Usually on a Friday I catch up with friends in Russell, it’s always really relaxed and we start looking forward to the weekend.

Who is the Kiwi you most admire?

Ernest Rutherford because of where he came from, not only the time but also the location and becoming so prominent in science, is an inspiration.

The spot in Northland I’d recommend is? Moturua Island, Ipipiri, its just one of those magical places and also to work with the species that are back there now.

If I were Far North mayor I’d…

Work at giving the Far North people a stronger

‘‘There are too many trucks...We need better integrated transport. ’’ Richard Robbins

voice. It’s about supporting the many amazing things that happen in the Far North already, and try to bring them together, like all the community groups that are working with pest management and wildlife.

When I’ve got a free few hours, I like to... Usually take the dog for a walk and I try to get out and about. And I’ve been building my house from scratch, so I also work on that.