Media Statement
NZ Institute of Forestry recognises outstanding contributions of individuals to New Zealand forestry
The NZ Institute of Forestry recognised the contribution of an outstanding leader at its Annual Awards Dinner in
Christchurch last Monday night, when Dr John Wardle received the NZIF Forester of the Year award. The award recognises
an Institute member who has made an outstanding contribution to either the forestry profession, or the forestry sector.
The award recognises leadership, excellence and personal integrity, particularly where this demonstrates the character
and strength of the forestry profession, and it is one of the highest accolades the Institute can bestow. “The Forester
of the Year award is a fitting recognition of the contribution that Dr John Wardle has made to the sector over a large
number of years”, said the President, David Evison. “Dr Wardle’s earlier contribution to research included writing the
authoritative text on the New Zealand beech species, and research into the effects of introduced wild animals on New
Zealand’s native forests. More recently Dr Wardle, in partnership with his wife Rosalie, has developed and managed a
unique forestry operation at their property “Woodside” in North Canterbury. They have pioneered innovative management of
both indigenous and exotic forests for multiple uses including timber and honey production and conservation. The
property is managed under an open space QEII covenant, which guarantees sustainable management into the future with
emphasis on both education and research activities. The QEII covenant on Woodside is unusual, in that it provides for
both conservation and sustainable timber harvesting.”
The Institute also celebrated the election of James Treadwell and Mike Marren as Fellows of the NZ Institute of
Forestry. The election to this special membership status is granted by a vote of members and recognises outstanding
contributions to the profession of forestry.