Wingspan Raptor Award 2025

• Awarded for outstanding efforts in NZ Raptor conservation.

   

  

  
  The Wingspan Raptor Award was established in 2006 to recognise individuals, groups, and/or organisations for outstanding efforts and contributions towards New Zealand birds of prey. We are thrilled to announce the recipient of the 2025 Raptor Award is Colin Maunder.

  The landmark discovery of kārearea New Zealand falcon breeding in Kaingaroa Forest in the early 90's heralded the beginning of an important relationship between Wingspan and forest managers. With their support, what began as a surprise discovery is now one of the longest-running monitoring programmes of a threatened species in New Zealand. Colin Maunder has been at the heart of this.

  As Forest Risk Manager and later Sustainability Manager for Timberlands, Colin has proved a steadfast friend to Wingspan and to kārearea. Under his watch, Timberlands became the first forestry company to adopt falcon-friendly practices into their Forest Stewardship Certification – setting a benchmark that influenced the entire forestry sector across New Zealand.

  Colin also championed Timberlands’ Restorative Development Goals, with kārearea at their core, alongside broader biodiversity and habitat management.

  Colin’s genuine belief is that falcons and forestry can thrive together, and his conviction is tangible. Over the years, he has backed postgraduate research; funded radios, signage, security, UAV pilot training, and 4-wheel drive courses; sponsored annual monitoring in Kaingaroa, Tarawera, Rotoehu and Whakarewarewa Forests; and, perhaps most significantly, secured funding of $500,000 towards the development of the new Wingspan National Bird of Prey Centre.

  As chair for the Central North Island Wood Council and delegate to the FSC Council, Colin represents a powerful ally for kārearea and one we are grateful to have in our corner.

  Following more than 22 years of commitment, leadership, and partnership, we can confidently say Colin Maunder is a deserving recipient of the Raptor Award.

  
  

  Winners of the Wingspan Raptor Conservation Award:
  2007 Dr Richard Seaton
  2008 Andrew Thomas
  2009 Colin Wynn
  2010 Steve Lawrence
  2011 Dr John Holland
  2012 Laurie and Janice Hoverd
  2014 Mary Staal
  2015 Chifuyu Hawksby
  2016 Betty Shepherd
  2021 Kevin Matthews
  2022 Scott & Tracey Bowman
  2023 Tāne Lawless
  2024 Debbie Stewart
  2025 Colin Maunder