Conservationist Craig McKenzie said he was lucky enough to be nominated and then chosen by the awards committee.
''I'm very chuffed and honoured and it's nice they recognised the different aspects within the organisation,'' he said.
Having been a photographer for almost 40 years and a member of Forest and Bird for nearly 15, Mr McKenzie said he enjoyed taking photos of the natural world and had an ability for capturing birds.
''It's a good excuse to get outside and even though it can be challenging to get the shots, it's worth it when you look back at what you have captured,'' he said.
The award is named after Chatham Islands black robin Old Blue, who helped save her species from extinction in 1980 when she was its only surviving female.
Her name came from the fact she wore a blue leg band and the award represents the highest honour that can be given.
''I received the award for supplying photographs for use in Forest and Bird magazines, for publicity and bird guides for the Catlins and Otago Peninsula,'' he said.
Two pieces of Mr McKenzie's work were shown at the ceremony on Saturday in Wellington.
''It was quite a buzz to hear the gasps from the audience when the photos appeared,'' he said.
Forest and Bird is a non-profit, non-governmental organisation that protects and promotes New Zealand's natural heritage.
- Charlotte Haselden
