Wanganui's Colin Ogle, pictured, is a regional finalist in the environmental section of the Pride of New Zealand awards.
Mr Ogle is Wanganui's go-to man on all things botanical and has dedicated years to the area's parks and bush. He is instrumental in leading Friends of Gordon Park, a volunteer group that oversees the planting and protection of the park, while his knowledge of special plants and botanical protection work is sought by the Department of Conservation and councils.
Originally trained as a science teacher, he became a scientist for the Wildlife Service before it merged with DoC.
The Pride of New Zealand awards recognise people throughout New Zealand who have shown outstanding endeavour in categories including bravery, the environment, lifetime achievement and community spirit.
Regional winners in each section will be chosen in the first week of August and the national final is on September 10.