Samantha Edwards-Ingle
Tūhura and Living Environments Coordinator
From penguins to butterflies, Sam shares her love of nature—turning animal encounters into moments of wonder as Living Environments Coordinator.
From Kelly Tarlton’s to the Wilds of Dunedin
Hi there, I’m Sam – though some might say I’m more like the Museum’s Mother Nature. I used to work at Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium in Auckland, surrounded by penguins and sea creatures every day. But eventually, the big city lights gave way to the call of coastal life, and I made my way south to beautiful Dunedin.
Now I look after everything living here at the Museum – from our fish and frogs to turtles, lizards, millipedes, giant stick insects, tarantulas, and of course, our enchanting butterflies.
A Day in the Life of Sam
My role is all about husbandry – the care and cultivation of animals. Some days I’m giving Shelly the terrapin her spa-like salt bath, other days I’m walking our bearded dragon, Spyro, through the Museum Reserve or unboxing butterfly pupae we’ve sourced from the Philippines and Costa Rica. It’s equal parts science, care, and a whole lot of love.
I studied Marine and Biological Sciences at Auckland University, so I’ve always had a soft spot for marine life. But if I’m honest, Spyro the bearded dragon has totally stolen my heart.
One of my favourite parts of the job is working on new interactives in our Science Centre – coming up with innovative ways for kids to learn about science and the world around them.
Living with Nature
Dunedin is a dream for nature lovers. We’re so lucky – there are sea lions, seabirds, and seals right on our doorstep.
Favourite Museum Space
The Nature Gallery, of course. I especially love the hoiho. Working with live penguins at Kelly Tarlton’s was incredible, but even seeing these rare birds taxidermied reminds me how precious they are. My job’s not just about feeding and cleaning – it’s about inspiring. I love teaching visitors of all ages about conservation, ecology, and the magic of the natural world. Watching their eyes light up during animal encounters or butterfly releases is the best part of my day.
First Flight, Big Hearts
One of my favourite daily moments is First Flight – our butterfly release in the Tropical Forest.
To me, it’s like sending my little ones off to their first day of school. For our visitors, it’s like a Disney movie come to life. Colours fill the air as the butterflies take their first flight in their rainforest home. Behind the scenes, we carefully raise the pupae – hanging them by hand, misting them, and keeping the temperature just right. It’s delicate work.
I love what I do so much I even convinced my sister Holly to join the team! Not everyone gets to say their job involves walking dragons and releasing butterflies – but I do.