My real name is Limin XIONG, though over the years, I’ve gained a variety of affectionate nicknames—little bear, big bear, koala bear, old bear, and kuma—all inspired by my family name, which means “bear.” I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from Yunnan University, a Master’s in Ecology from Southwest University, and a PhD in Ecology from Lincoln University. My career has spanned teaching and research roles at institutions like Bethune Medical University (now part of Jilin University), Southwest University, Japan’s Forestry and Forest Products Research Institute (FFPRI), and Lincoln University. I also served as a contractor for the Southern Institute of Technology in New Zealand.

Now, semi-retired and living in Auckland, I’ve embraced new passions. I’m a hobbyist beekeeper, registered and certified with DECA in New Zealand, and an author of children’s picture books. I’ve always been known as “Bear” among friends, and since New Zealand has become my home, the name NZ Bear seemed the perfect fit to reflect both my identity and my creative journey.