Volunteers, businesses and schools making a positive impact to protect and restore the Waitākere Ranges have been recognised in the 2024 Love Your Place Awards.
Around 100 guests came together to celebrate the mahi of these exceptional people at an awards ceremony held at the Titirangi War Memorial Hall on Sunday 2 March 2025.
The awards are held every second year, thanks to the funding from the Waitākere Ranges Local Board and are organised by EcoMatters Environment Trust.
“It’s inspiring and humbling to see all the amazing initiatives and passion from the community who are so dedicated to protect our beloved natural environment,” says Greg Presland, Chair of the Waitākere Ranges Local Board.
“The board is immensely proud of everyone who contributes to helping preserve the special place we call home. Our heartfelt thanks and congratulations to all the nominees and winners.”
EcoMatters CEO Carla Gee says it’s always encouraging to see how many people are contributing to conservation and climate action in the Waitākere Ranges.
“It’s so inspiring to hear about how much is happening in this very special part of Auckland, from grassroots conservation efforts to waste minimisation. As judges, it’s always a struggle to choose just one winner from all the nominees. We’re grateful to the Waitākere Ranges Local Board for continuing to support these awards, so that those doing the mahi here know their efforts are appreciated,” says Carla.
Awards were given in five categories, recognising youth, school groups, businesses, volunteer groups and individual volunteers who have made an impact in stream restoration, environmental education and protection, pest control, native planting, invasive weeding and waste management.
Winners
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Denise Yates Award: for youth (under 18) showing emerging leadership around local environmental issues.
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Winner: Eloise Dwyer
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Judges’ Commendation: Fred Cannon
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Karaka Award: for a school or school group taking action on a local environmental issue.
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Winner: Green Bay High School’s Green Impact group
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Judges’ Commendation: Shining Starz Early Learning Centre
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Nīkau Award: for a business or social enterprise making a contribution to improve the environment.
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Winner: Arataki Visitor Centre
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Judges Commendation: BirdCare Aotearoa
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Rātā Award: for an outstanding volunteer group or organisation taking action on a local environmental issue.
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Winner: Restoration Ruatuna
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Judges Commendation: Friends of Whatipu
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Judges Commendation: Petrelheads
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Kahikatea Award: for an outstanding individual volunteer taking action on a local environmental issue.
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Winner: Megan Fitter
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Judges Commendation: Peter King
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Find out more about the award winners here.
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