Backblocks Environmental Management Ltd is based in the Wairarapa region of New Zealand, and operates nationwide, providing expertise across a range of conservation services.

We are experts at controlling New Zealand pests and predators, and specialise in protecting rare and threatened species, restoring habitat, enhancing biodiversity, and supporting conservation projects and groups. Our mahi is a mix of boots-on delivery, helping to grow great people, training, mentoring, planning, and advisory work.

Backblocks owner/director John Bissell has life-long involvement in the field of conservation. He combines extensive experience as a ranger, trapper and hunter with environmental planning and project management expertise to ensure that you get the most effective and efficient outcome.

John stays at the cutting edge of new technology and developments while retaining and using the old-school, old-world skills that are so critical to success, yet which are becoming less common in this day and age. John’s skill set is a mix of science and hunting, and he is adamant that you need both.

backblocks environmental management

Backblocks has also partnered with a hand-picked team of specialists to ensure that, regardless of the challenge, you get the best people for the job.

We value and enjoy great working relationships with our clients, and take pleasure in providing top-quality customer service.

Find out more about John and Backblocks.

The benefits of working with Backblocks

  • We can tap into additional specialists and resources where needed to provide the best options and solutions for environmental projects.
  • We pride ourselves on our flexible approach, where we seek to deliver the best possible outcomes for the best price rather than always sticking to a set formula.
  • We ensure that we work within compliance requirements, and prioritise the interests and safety of those we work for and with.
  • We are a small company with a lot of ability. When you work with us you deal with John directly – you won’t feel like a number.

"The Aorangi Restoration Trust has worked with John in a range of areas including practical operations, advice and governance. John gives sage advice; considered, thoughtful, and knowledgeable across a wide range of areas. He’s thorough - up front, communicates well and directly, and shares information."

Bob Burgess Project Manager, Aorangi Restoration Trust

Read more of our testimonials >>

What we do

backblocks environmental management

Conservation

Protecting rare and threatened populations of New Zealand wildlife.

Start protecting

Ecosystem Restoration

Restoration of ecosystems such as wetlands, riparian margins and forest remnants.

Where to start

Monitor & Survey

Measuring baselines and outcomes, species monitoring and site assessments.

Use our expertise

Farm & Forestry

Farm and forestry environmental restoration and pest control programmes.

Strategies to manage

Training & Auditing

Training, mentoring and auditing plus planning and advisory support packages.

Where to start

Ungulate Management

Control and management of ungulates such as pigs, goats and deer.

Strategies to manage

Get in touch with John today to discuss how Backblocks can help you.

Our partners

save the kiwi
pukaha
bay conservation alliance
wairarapa pukaha to kawakawa alliance