ASB Good as Gold Recipient, Steve Sawyer

Long-time conservation champion Steve Sawyer has been recognised on TVNZ’s Seven Sharp as an ASB Good as Gold recipient — a surprise that left him momentarily speechless. 

Nominated by Wendy Linton, Steve was celebrated for his decades of dedicated work with the Whinray Ecological Charitable Trust. The Trust, which protects biodiversity, endangered species, and restores the kiwi population in the Whinray Scenic Reserve, thrives on local passion, with Steve at the heart of it all. 

On what Steve thought was a routine visit to meet Motu School kids, the morning took an unexpected turn.

Emerging from behind the flax bushes came Seven Sharp reporter Michael Holland, a camera crew, and a small group of supporters, ready to deliver the surprise of a lifetime: Steve had been named an ASB Good as Gold recipient, with a $10,000 award. 

Michael Holland from Seven Sharp surprises eco-warrier Steve Sawyer.

“I had no idea — it was a complete surprise,” said Steve. “But I don’t do this work at Whinray for the recognition. I do it because this place is special and I love it. Protecting the Reserve means future generations can experience what we still have today.” 

True to form, Steve has chosen to pay it forward—donating half of his $10,000 prize to the Whinray Eco Trust’s Endowment Fund with Sunrise Foundation. His gift will help build long-term security for the Trust’s work, ensuring native species and habitats continue to be protected for years to come.

Steve, his wife Robyn and other volunteers are tireless champions of the fund, actively promoting it and organising regular fundraisers in the community. 

“Steve is an incredible champion for the environment and for future-focused giving,” says Sunrise CEO Glenda Stokes. “He not only leads conservation efforts on the ground but also understands the value of building financial resilience for the Trust’s future through their endowment fund. It’s inspiring to see that kind of long-term thinking in action.” 

Congratulations on your award Steve — we were thrilled to be part of the surprise and to celebrate this well-deserved honour with you.  

To actively support Whinray Eco Trust’s Endowment Fund, supporting the incredible work Steve and his team are doing, you can donate here.