The cost for engaging an ecologist in New Zealand largely depends on project complexity. For a simple project, such as sampling a small stream, it might cost in the order of $2,000. With increasing complexity, it becomes more expensive. So, if it involves sampling multiple sites, it might be in the order of $5,000 to $10,000. If you need to sample multiple sites in remote locations, the costs might be more in the range of $10,000 to $30,000. If the ecologist needs to appear as an expert witness, in say a council hearing, it's often in the order of $10,000 to $20,000.