Esteemed Otago ecologist, Dr Kelvin Lloyd, has been awarded the Loder Cup by Department of Conservation Director General, Penny Nelson, at a ceremony in Dunedin this afternoon.
Drawing on his deep and extensive knowledge, Dr Lloyd (pictured) has increased understanding of ecosystems on a nationwide level, aided court decisions, and supported community conservation, said Ms Nelson.
She said Dr Kelvin Lloyd epitomises the qualities of the prestigious conservation award, which recognises people who have made an outstanding contribution to conserving indigenous flora.
“Winning the Loder Cup is not merely about personal achievement; it is about demonstrating leadership, inspiring others, and leaving a legacy that benefits generations to come.”
“It’s an honour to present this award to someone who has spent a lifetime defending the native plants and landscapes that make Aotearoa unique,” said Ms Nelson.
Based in Dunedin, Dr Lloyd studied at the University of Otago, completing a PhD in botany, and built a successful career in ecology and botany. His extensive research on ecosystems across Southland and Otago has shaped the way wetlands are mapped and assessed wetlands nationally.
Over many years, he has helped to safeguard vulnerable habitats by reviewing resource consents for major infrastructure projects and appearing as an expert witness in the Environment Court, before Boards of Inquiry and in Tribunals.
“His expertise is widely recognised by colleagues and environmental groups,” says Ms Nelson.
He was lead author for a report for the Ministry for Primary Industries in 2019, which modelled the potential spread of wilding conifers across the country. From this work, $14 million was allocated to controlling wilding conifers.
He was also part of the small group that started the Orokonui Ecosanctuary, north of Dunedin, and as a trustee for 14 years he has been central to its success. This 307-hectare coastal forest, protected by a predator fence, is a significant community-led conservation project.
In a statement, the Department said Dr Lloyd has made a major contribution to the study of New Zealand’s native plants, especially his research comparing the ecology of rare and common species. Through the NZ Ecological Society, he has widely shared his knowledge of new taxa, species distribution and ecology with colleagues.
One of Aotearoa New Zealand’s oldest conservation awards, the Loder Cup was donated by avid plant collector and enthusiast Gerald Loder in 1926 to encourage and honour New Zealanders who work to investigate, promote, retain and cherish New Zealand’s indigenous flora.
