Auckland City Council

Media release

6 May 2009

Time to enter 2009 conservation awards

If you are an active conservationist, or know of others who are, it’s time to enter yourself or nominate someone for Auckland Zoo’s 2009 national conservation awards.

Launched in Conservation Week 2008, the Conservationist of the Year and Young Conservationist of the Year (up to 17 years) awards, judged by the Auckland Zoo Board, celebrate individual conservation initiatives of local, regional or national significance. 

Last year’s winners were University of Otago frog research leader, Dr Phil Bishop for his efforts for New Zealand native frogs, and 10-year-old Isabella Wilson of Waterview, Auckland, for her personal local campaign against the use of palm oil, the production of which is destroying orang utan habitat. 

“It may be the young person who not only goes out and cleans up the beach but also organises their whole community to join in, or is someone, who in both their professional and personal life, has worked on a habitat restoration or wildlife recovery project,” says Auckland Zoo Board chair, Councillor Graeme Mulholland. “Whatever their passion or project, if they are out in their communities really making a difference, please do nominate them.”

Auckland Zoo conservation officer Peter Fraser, who established the awards, says as well as recognising conservation excellence, the awards provide a great opportunity to profile conservation issues, and help further the shared conservation goals of New Zealanders. 

Award winners will once again be announced during Conservation Week (13 – 20 September).  Along with their award, the Conservationist of the Year receives $1000 to assist with a conservation initiative.  The Young Conservationist of the Year, in addition to the award, is given a ‘money can’t buy’ experience that is connected with conservation.

For further details, including criteria for applying and an application form, visit www.aucklandzoo,co.nz  Applications close on 1 August.

ENDS

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