Bay man honoured in environmental awards

Ian Tarei, a field worker with the Omataroa Kiwi Project in the eastern Bay of Plenty, pictured tracking kiwi fitted with transmitters in bush near Whakatane. Photo/file

A Whakatane environmentalist has been named a Green Ribbon winner for his work at helping restore the biodiversity-rich Puhikoko Reserve and look after kiwis.

Ian Tarei from Omataroa Rangitaiki No2 Charitable Trust Kiwi project was named winner of the Kaitiaki leadership category of the awards, announced yesterday.

Now in their 26th year, the Green Ribbon Awards recognise exceptional environmental achievements by individuals and organisations around New Zealand.

The awards were presented at a Parliamentary function, co-hosted by Environment Minister Dr Nick Smith and Conservation Minister Maggie Barry.

Dr Smith said the Green Ribbon Awards continued to demonstrate the incredible commitment many New Zealanders, as individuals and organisations, have to their environment.

"About 110 nominations were received across the various categories, and they showcased some absolutely amazing work happening around the country. New Zealanders continue to bring the energy, passion and innovation that they're known for to this area of their lives, and we're all better off for it," Dr Smith said.

"It is also appropriate that the announcement of the Green Ribbon Award winners comes a day before World Environment Day. Environmental issues are increasingly global, so making that connection is important."