Honouring excellence in forestry at the 2025 NZIF AwardsFriday 4 Jul 2025
Honorary Member – David Bunting NZIF bestowed honorary membership upon David Bunting in recognition of his exceptional service to the profession. Over 11 years as the independent member of the NZIF Registration Board, David played a pivotal role in transforming professional registration, supporting its growth from 90 to over 170 members. His leadership contributed to major policy recognitions, including exemptions under the Real Estate Agents Act and the establishment of a career pathway for early professionals. His insights, drawn from experience with chartered engineering schemes, have elevated professionalism across the sector. Prince of Wales Sustainability Cup – Grace Hughes Grace Hughes was awarded the prestigious Prince of Wales Sustainability Cup for her inspiring work in sustainable forest management. A valued team member at Forever Forests, Grace leads indigenous forestry and ETS projects, while actively engaging with landowners and the wider industry through initiatives like Future Foresters and the Wood is Good campaign. Her commitment to science-based stewardship and community engagement earned admiration from both His Royal Highness Prince William and His Majesty King Charles III. FRESTRA Young Forester of the Year – Kendra Monteith Kendra Monteith was named the 2025 FRESTRA Young Forester of the Year. Described by her peers as a magnetic leader and the “glue” of Future Foresters, Kendra has built strong networks, particularly on the East Coast, and inspired a new generation of forestry professionals. In her day job, she has led critical work in Tairāwhiti, managing the removal of over 500,000m³ of debris from vulnerable catchments. Her blend of operational expertise, environmental focus, and empathetic leadership stood out in a competitive field of nominees. Forester of the Year – Dr Dean Meason The 2025 NZIF Forester of the Year is Dr Dean Meason, recognised for his groundbreaking leadership in forest hydrology. As head of the Forest Flows Research Programme, Dean led the deployment of over 1,700 sensors across nine sites to generate over 390 million data points, reshaping our understanding of forests’ role in water management. His team’s work has informed both regional and national policy, engaged communities and iwi, and led to international partnerships including with NASA and the European Space Agency. Dean’s contribution has had a profound impact on the forestry sector and environmental science in New Zealand. NZIF President James Treadwell, who concluded his decade-long tenure at the event, reflected: “It has been an honour and privilege to present these awards over the past ten years, and to see the emergence of new leaders through awards like the Prince of Wales Cup and Frestra Young Forester of the Year. Our profession continues to evolve, and these awardees embody the excellence, integrity, and forward-thinking approach which will carry forestry into the future.” The NZIF extends sincere thanks to NZ Carbon Farming Ltd for their generous sponsorship of the evening, and to all those who contribute to advancing forestry in Aotearoa. Source & image credit: New Zealand Institute of Forestry (NZIF) | ||
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