Researcher - Advocate - Athlete

Ashton Reiser is one of New Zealand’s top kayaking talents, currently a member of the NZ Elite Sprint Kayaking team. Having been practicing his water skills since his surf lifesaving career commenced in his teen years, Ashton, now at 26 years of age, currently is ranked number 11 in the world in the K1 500m.

Ashton prides himself on being a grounded person, multi-talented at that. When he is not kayaking, Ashton is normally busy with scientific work out in the field and he has just completed his Masters of Science Degree at the University of Waikato. This was completed in partnership with the Department of Conservation to research the best methods to detect pest fish in New Zealand's lakes using environmental DNA technology. Ashton is also a biosecurity advocate for the Waikato Regional Council and the Ministry for Primary Industries, where he works with community groups and major water-sports organisations to stop the spread of aquatic pests.