Volunteers at the prion fence
Distinguished Life Member Award
Given in recognition of significant long term service in advancing conservation and the Society’s objectives, in particular at a National level, this is the Society’s highest award. This person will have acted in a manner seen as over and above that normally expected. This award goes to just one exceptional individual each year.
Old Blue Award
‘Old Blue’ was the Chatham Island Black Robin who saved her whole species from extinction. Open to members and non-members this award recognises those who have made a significant contribution to advancing the Society’s objectives at a Branch level or through non-Society conservation work. Up to five awards are made each year.
The closing date for nominations is 28 March 2025.
Te Kaiārahi Rangatahi o te Taiao Youth Award
Many young people undertake truly remarkable initiatives to protect and restore our unique natural environment, this award will recognise that special young person who shows leadership, initiative and who is making a difference.
The closing date for nominations is 28 March 2025.
Branch Award
This award will recognise the hard work put in by Forest & Bird branches from across New Zealand - everything from controlling pest plants and animals, restoring native ecosystems, planting trees, or doing advocacy work. This new award has taken the place of our previous Pest Buster and Golden Spade award for predator and pest control. Branches are nominated by our Regional Conservation Managers.
The closing date for nominations is 28 March 2025.
Kōtuku Award | Te Tohu Kōtuku
For outstanding guardianship | Mō te tiakitanga ahurei
A Kōtuku Award may be awarded to an individual, or group, outside the Society, who has/have made an outstanding and profound contribution to environmental management or guardianship in Aotearoa New Zealand. The work may include: outstanding guardianship or ground breaking conservation work at a local or regional level that will assist conservation throughout the country or successfully advocated for law changes to benefit sound environmental management in wider Aotearoa New Zealand. This Award to be presented at the annual conference or at a special event.
Tī-Kōuka Award | Te Tohu Tī-Kōuka
For a significant contribution to conservation over a long period of time | Mō te tāpaetanga hira ki te mahi tiaki taiao
The Tī-Kōuka Award (symbolising longevity and persistence). This may be awarded to a member who has made a significant contribution, over a long period of time, to furthering the conservation aims of the society at a local or regional level, including practical hands on work; fulfilling organisational, administrative or representational roles on behalf of their Branch; fulfilling any other role that can be shown to have significantly progressed the Society’s objectives. This Award is to be presented by a Board member at a regional meeting, island gathering or local branch meeting.
No closing date for nominations, these will be considered by the Forest & Bird Board as they are received. Any branch member can submit a nomination for this award.