Congratulations to Liz Maire MNZM

The Forest Bridge Trust is delighted to congratulate our Foundation Trustee, Liz Maire, on being appointed a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) for services to conservation and education.

This prestigious honour recognises more than 35 years of dedication to protecting Aotearoa’s natural environment and inspiring others to care for it. Throughout her career, Liz has made an extraordinary contribution to conservation, environmental education, outdoor recreation and community service.

From her work with the Department of Conservation and the restoration of Tiritiri Matangi, to co-founding Women’s Outdoor Pursuits and volunteering with Search and Rescue, Liz has devoted countless hours to creating opportunities for people to connect with nature while helping to protect some of New Zealand’s most precious places and species.

For The Forest Bridge Trust, Liz has been a guiding force since our earliest days. As a Foundation Trustee, she has played a pivotal role in shaping our organisation and helping to grow our conservation efforts across northern Auckland. Her knowledge, vision and leadership have helped support the protection of kiwi and other native wildlife, while fostering strong partnerships with landowners, volunteers and communities.

Liz also established our education programme, creating opportunities for hundreds of local children to experience and learn about the natural world. Through hands-on conservation activities and environmental education, she has helped inspire the next generation of kaitiaki, encouraging young people to understand the importance of caring for our unique wildlife and ecosystems.

Those who have worked alongside Liz know her as a passionate advocate for nature, a generous mentor and a tireless champion for conservation. Her ability to bring people together around a shared purpose has left a lasting impact on communities throughout the region.

We are incredibly grateful for everything Liz has contributed to The Forest Bridge Trust and the wider conservation sector. Her passion, and commitment have helped create a stronger future for both people and nature.

This recognition is richly deserved, and we are proud to celebrate this remarkable achievement with her.

Congratulations, Liz, on your appointment as a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit.