Community Champion Honoured For Conservation Efforts
Gay Munro has been officially recognised for her lifelong dedication to conservation and community service with a Community Service Award presented by SDC mayor Robb Scott. photo: supplied
Gay Munro received a Community Service Award for decades of service and dedication
Her conservation work has helped preserve Southland’s environment for future generations
She also made major contributions to local heritage, education, and community initiatives
Gay Munro has been officially recognised for her lifelong dedication to conservation and community service with a Community Service Award, presented by the Southland District Council and Waihopai Toetoe Community Board.
Southland Mayor Rob Scott described it as a privilege to present the award. “Gay sets the standard when it comes to community involvement. The time and effort she’s dedicated to so many organisations and initiatives over the years is impressive, particularly in the conservation space,” he said. “The positive impact she has had not only benefits the community now, but it will also be long-lasting into the future for generations to come. She’s looking after the past, the present and the future.”
Over the years, the Gorge Road local has made her mark across a wide range of projects. Her love for conservation saw her serve as Southland’s representative on the Queen Elizabeth II National Trust from 1997 to 2009. In this role, she travelled across the region, offering advice and support to landowners interested in protecting biodiversity through QEII covenants.
Mrs Munro continues to volunteer for the Southland Ecological Restoration Network, where she organises field trips and contributes to ongoing environmental projects. Her long involvement with the Waituna Landcare Group, from 2001 to 2022, included serving as secretary and later chairperson. Her leadership supported stream planting initiatives, the development of a sanctuary, gravel pit replanting, and educational field days.
Her commitment to Gorge Road is equally significant. She has served on the local community board, the school board of trustees, and the swimming pool committee. Her governance roles reflect her deep connection to the area and passion for supporting local causes.
As chair of the Gorge Road and Districts Heritage Society, Mrs Munro helps preserve the region’s history. She organises annual heritage bus tours, played a key role in the bell tower project, and is currently leading the installation of a heritage shed and interpretation panels at the local domain.
She also authored From Oteramika to Gorge Road and Districts, a book that records the area's rich stories. Her contributions include setting up a book exchange at Mokotua Hall, running table tennis and fish and chip nights, overseeing the Mokotua Recycling Centre, organising Anzac Day events, and editing the community newsletter.
