2024/25 Port Marlborough - Marlborough Environment Awards

Award Winner Field Days 2025

A behind-the-scenes look at all the 2025 Award Winners

The Port Marlborough – Marlborough Environment Awards invite the community to join them for an exclusive opportunity to visit the winners of the 2025 Awards at their own properties and workplaces. These field days provide a unique chance to meet the people behind Marlborough’s most inspiring environmental initiatives, hear their stories firsthand, and see practical examples of how sustainable thinking is being turned into action.

Each field day highlights one of the Awards’ category winners – offering participants the opportunity to go behind the scenes, explore on-site projects, ask questions, and learn more about the innovative and forward-thinking work happening across Marlborough’s diverse landscapes. Whether participants are involved in business, farming, forestry, community projects, or simply curious about what’s possible, they will come away with fresh ideas and a deeper understanding of environmental leadership in action.

The Marlborough Environment Awards began in 1997 to recognise businesses and community projects going the extra mile to care for the environment and to share their experience as inspiration for others. The Awards are run by a not-for-profit Trust, with support from the Council, Department of Conservation, and local sponsors.

Attendance at the field days is free, with multiple locations available, but RSVP is essential. Places may be limited, so early registration is encouraged. These events are a valuable way to connect, learn, and celebrate local environmental leadership in action.

CONFIRMED FIELD DAYS

FARMING – GLENTOI FARM
Wednesday 17 September 2025, 9:30am–2pm

Glentoi, owned by Willie and Millie Millton, is a 1,685-ha sheep and beef breeding and finishing property in Ward, Marlborough. The farm features extensive native vegetation, including 32-ha protected under a Significant Natural Area (SNA) designation.

The Milltons are passionate advocates for sustainable, innovative farming – demonstrating how productive land use can be balanced with ecological kaitiakitanga (guardianship) and native restoration.

The field day will include a special presentation by Susan Moore-Lavo from Te Uru Rākau – NZ Forest Service. Participants will need a 4WD vehicle and moderate driving experience; carpooling can be arranged. BYO lunch.

The Farming category is proudly sponsored by Federated Farmers Marlborough and supported by Marlborough NZ Landcare Trust.

MARINE – WAIKAWA BOATING CLUB
Sunday 28 September 2025, 10:30am–1:30pm

Waikawa Boating Club will share their award-winning achievements and success with Yachting New Zealand’s “Clean Club” initiatives, showing how members are embracing environmentally friendly practices. This event will run alongside the Club’s Open Day – everyone is welcome.

COMMUNITY INNOVATION – ENVIROHUB MARLBOROUGH
Friday 10 October 2025, 10am–12pm

This field day will highlight Envirohub’s four priorities – Zero Waste, Conservation Kids NZ, Marine Conservation, and Sustainable Communities – with guest speaker Sarah Huntley, Ngāti Kuia Te Hoiere Centre Manager and Education Coordinator.

LANDSCAPE & HABITAT – WILD WAIKAWA
Friday 31 October 2025, 9am–1pm

This immersive field day will focus on native forest restoration, volunteer engagement, and partnerships. Participants will gain practical insights into pest control, planting, and community collaboration, while learning how the project builds a deep connection with the community, works closely with Te Ātiawa, and fosters both natural and spiritual wellbeing.

FORESTRY – TOP OF THE SOUTH WOOD COUNCIL (TE HOIERE PROJECTS)
Thursday 27 November 2025, 9am–2pm

Participants will have the opportunity to explore Te Hoiere forestry projects, seeing firsthand innovative environmental practices, scientific trials, and community-led conservation initiatives. The day will include guided site walks, practical insights into forestry management, and the chance to connect with experts and fellow attendees over a casual lunch.

Follow the Awards on Facebook and Instagram for more information on upcoming field days still to be confirmed, including:

• Business Innovation – MG Contracting & Kinzett Tomatoes
• Electrification & Energy Efficiency – TRS Wholesale Ltd
• SUPREME WINNER + Wine – Future Post

Don’t miss out – register now!
Please confirm which field day(s) you are registering for, the number of people attending, and their names.
Email RSVP: [email protected]
https://www.facebook.com/MarlboroughEnvironmentAwards/