The Fiordland Marine Guardians’ recent run of recognition has continued, with the group receiving two honours at the 29th Environment Southland Community Awards in Invercargill on 3 October.
The awards, hosted by Environment Southland, celebrate Murihiku Southland’s environmental achievers.
The Guardians and the Deep Cove Outdoor Education Trust received Highly Commended in the ‘Environmental Action in Education’ category for the Fiordland Marine Education Programme.
The award is recognition of the Guardians’ collaboration (led by Guardian John Cushen) with the Trust to deliver a new and innovative marine education programme for tamariki attending school camps in Doubtful Sound / Patea.
The award citation said the marine programme is “designed to offer strong learning opportunities through captivating experiences, such as a virtual reality journey that immerses learners in Fiordland’s remarkable marine environment”.
Award Judges noted the programme blended “cutting-edge technology with practical skills to create a lasting impact and engaging learning”.
Guardians’ Chair Dr Rebecca McLeod received the prestigious Kaitiaki Tohu Pou Award in recognition of her marine science expertise, leadership and dedication to the protection and preservation of the Fiordland region.
The award citation said Dr McLeod’s leadership has been central to the Guardians’ progress and continued dedication to the preservation and restoration of the world-renowned Fiordland region. This includes the development of strategic plans, including the Fiordland Marine Regional Pathway Management Plan, and the new Fiordland Marine Area Strategic Priorities 2025–28.”
“It was such an honour to receive these awards and to have our mahi acknowledged in front of the community of Murihiku Southland, including many people who have supported and been involved with the Guardians. For this acknowledgement to happen on the 20th anniversary of the Fiordland (Te Moana o Atawhenua) Marine Management Act made it extra special.”
In September the Guardians received the Oceans Guardian Award at the New Zealand Seafood Sustainability and Innovations Awards 2025, which were hosted by the Ministry for Primary Industries in Wellington.
About the Guardians
The Guardians are an advisory group established by the Fiordland (Te Moana o Atawhenua) Marine Management Act 2005. They are responsible for providing advice to Ministers, government departments, and Environment Southland on the management of the Fiordland (Te Moana o Atawhenua) Marine Area.
Learn more about the other awards and winners on Environment Southland’s website here: https://www.es.govt.nz/about-us/community-awards/2025-environment-southland-community-award-winners
