2026 NZPCN award winners
2026 Otago recipients from left: Alex Fergus (NZPCN President), Yvette Ridley, Sararose, Brown and Neill Simpson, Scott Jarvie and Jo Smith (NZPCN). Photo: Taylor Davies-ColleyReflecting the 2026 conference theme, Māhia ngā here – Collaboration for better conservation, this year’s award recipients demonstrate the power of working together to protect and restore Aotearoa New Zealand’s indigenous flora. Their contributions highlight the importance of sharing knowledge, building strong relationships and fostering collaboration between communities, scientists, conservation practitioners and local authorities.
Five awards were presented at the 2026 NZPCN biennial conference in Wellington | Te Whanganui-a-Tara. Yvette Ridley of Queenstown Lakes District Council received the Individual Award, Whakatipu Reforestation Trust received the Community Award, and Otago Regional Council, represented by Scott Jarvie, received the Local Authority Award. Guy and Sandra Bowden of Tawapou Nursery received the Plant Nursery Award, while Jeremy Rolfe was recognised with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his exceptional and sustained contribution to indigenous plant conservation.
From left Alex Fergus (NZPCN President), Sandra Bowden and Guy Bowden from Tawapo, and Jo Smith (NZPCN). Photo: Taylopr-Davies-ColleytTheir achievements reflect not only individual dedication but also the collective effort needed to ensure Aotearoa’s unique plant life is understood, valued and protected for future generations.
Posted: 13/10/2026