Applying animal science skills to safeguard New Zealand’s primary industries

Jamie’s connection with animals began early, growing up on a small farm in Waiau Pa, just outside of Pukekohe. She was actively involved in calf club, raising lambs and chickens, and eventually discovered a passion for horses which she credits to her parents.

“My parents had a big influence on me, not only through living on the farm and raising all sorts of animals, but especially through their involvement in breeding Thoroughbreds, which sparked my curiosity in this area.”

When Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University first introduced the animal science degree, Jamie knew it was the perfect way to combine her interests with a pathway into the animal industry. She enrolled in the Bachelor of Animal Science, majoring in Genetics and Breeding.

“I went into the degree interested in how genetics can improve animal performance, health and welfare, particularly in the racing industry. But as I delved deeper into my studies, I found myself drawn more to livestock genetic improvement,” Jamie says.

Jamie was the first in her family to move away from home, leaving at 17 to study on Massey’s Manawatū campus at the other end of the North Island. She says the experience gave her independence and confidence and is what she’s most proud of, along with completing her degree while working with horses in the mornings before classes.

After graduating, Jamie explored several roles, seeking work that aligned more closely with her interests in the primary industries.

“I’d always been interested in applying for a role at the Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) but I hadn’t seriously considered it straight out of university. Since applying, I’ve completed a 10-week training programme as a Quarantine Officer and passed the Biosecurity Act exam to become warranted. I’ll soon be warranted under the Agricultural Compounds and Veterinary Medicines Act as well,” Jamie says.

“Although this role is quite different from the on-farm or sales-focused positions I initially envisioned, I’ve discovered a real passion for protecting New Zealand at the border and playing a key role in our biosecurity system.”

Within Biosecurity New Zealand (MPI’s Biosecurity branch), officers work both at the border and post-border. Post-border teams manage or eradicate pests and diseases that have already entered the country.

“This includes serious threats such as foot-and-mouth disease, African swine fever, avian influenza and many others that affect both flora and fauna. We covered many of these risks during my degree, and it’s been eye-opening to see how they’re managed in a real-world context,” Jamie explains.

Border officers rotate across key areas to protect Aotearoa New Zealand from biosecurity risks. This includes Auckland Airport, cargo and airfreight inspection, port screening of ships and passengers, international mail checks and auditing approved facilities that import or export risk goods.

“While some of those roles may not initially sound exciting, there is far more depth and purpose to them than I could have imagined. I’m getting to protect our unique environments and our primary industries."

Reflecting on her journey, Jamie says her time at university taught her that you don’t always need a fixed plan.

“The most important thing is to stay open, try new things and take every opportunity, because each step can lead you closer to finding a career that truly sparks your passion.”

Combine your love of animals and science with the only animal science degree available in New Zealand. Study a Bachelor of Animal Science.