Contestants Disqualified for Violating Environmental Laws
The reality show “Race to Survive: New Zealand,” where contestants must find their own food while traversing harsh terrains, saw a significant controversy. Spencer ‘Corry’ Jones and Oliver Dev, river guides and frontrunners, were disqualified after one of them killed and ate a Weka, a flightless bird considered endangered in parts of New Zealand. The incident, currently under investigation by New Zealand’s conservation department, highlights the country’s stringent wildlife protection laws.
Incident details and apology
A clip from the show revealed Jones admitting to knowingly breaking the rules due to hunger. He later apologized, stating, “What I did disrespected New Zealand, and I’m sorry.” The Weka, akin to the iconic Kiwi, is a protected species under New Zealand’s Wildlife Act 1953, which imposes severe penalties for harming the bird, including fines up to $60,000 or imprisonment.
The Show’s challenges and winners
“Race to Survive: New Zealand” featured 10 episodes beginning in May. Contestants endured a 40-day, 150-mile ordeal involving trekking, kayaking, and mountain climbing. Despite the tough conditions, only three teams reached the end, with Ethan Greenberg and Tyrie Mann Merrill, a team of smokejumpers, winning the $500,000 prize.
This incident underscores the delicate balance between survival challenges and environmental conservation, prompting a reevaluation of the show’s protocols to prevent future violations.
