Elena Marais

Elena joined Toi Ohomai in 2021 and teaches across a range of subjects, including freshwater ecology, waste management, terrestrial invertebrates, and research design and methodology. She enjoys helping students connect theory with real-world practice, particularly during field-based learning and student research projects.

Elena holds a Master of Technology in Nature Conservation from Tshwane University of Technology, as well as a New Zealand Certificate in Adult and Tertiary Teaching. Her background includes extensive field research, particularly on the diet and breeding productivity of the Secretary bird in South Africa. She also worked with various other bird of prey species such as the Verreaux’s Eagle, Amur falcons and Pale chanted goshawks. 

Before joining Toi Ohomai, Elena worked in tertiary education in South Africa and held conservation and project management roles in game reserves, where she was involved in wildlife monitoring, genetic tracking of buffalo and sable antelope, and habitat assessments.

Elena’s interests include avian ecology, wetland ecology, and environmental education. She’s passionate about fostering curiosity in her students and supporting them in becoming the next generation of environmental problem-solvers.