Hinahina husband and wife Jane and Jim Young were among four Otago recipients of the prestigious Forest & Bird Old Blue award.
They received the award for their contributions to the organisation’s South Otago branch, which included running its native plant nursery and raising more than $10,000 each year through sales, and serving on its committee for at least 15 years.
Mrs Young said she joined the branch following a conversation with "someone less sympathetic to the cause".
"I had arranged a meeting between both sides of a contentious debate about creating a marine reserve in the Catlins.
"The proposal drew a lot of hostility, and one woman complained on the local radio about the ‘Forest & Bird greenie’ trying to promote propaganda.
"At that time, I wasn’t a member ... but I duly became one, thinking if I’m going to be accused of being a greenie I’m going to become one."
Both were biology teachers, making ecological activities a natural fit.
"As biology teachers we always had an interest in environmental issues and would take kids on trips," Mr Young said.
"We tried to preach the good word and so we kicked off from there."
Mrs Young said, as with all awards, the Old Blue — named for the sole Chatham Island black robin who saved her species from extinction in the 1980s — was an acknowledgement of the efforts of many.
"It’s never just a couple of people."
The pair would share a celebratory meal with other award recipients and local branch members in Dunedin next week, they said.
The other Old Blue award recipients were Dr Kelvin Lloyd, of Dunedin, and Mo Turnbull, of Hāwea.
Dr Lloyd was cited for his work as an ecologist, botanist and science educator, having worked as an expert witness for Forest & Bird in the Environment Court.
Mr Turnbull received his award for his "outstanding contribution to Forest & Bird’s Central Otago Lakes branch and to conservation in the region".
