Professor Charlie Eason, of Nelson, CNZM, for services to science and wildlife conservation
Professor Charlie Eason is the Chief Executive of the Cawthron Institute and a Professor of Wildlife Management and Conservation at Lincoln University. Under his leadership, the Institute has increased staff numbers, trebled its operating surplus, and increased its research output. He has overseen the development and marketing of high-value bioactive compounds extracted from algae and the establishment by industry of major shellfish spat nurseries on Cawthron-owned land near Nelson. He led a research programme to breed virus-resistant oysters to support the rebuilding of the Pacific oyster industry in Northland. Professor Eason is recognised internationally as a leading expert on predator control, has published more than 200 papers and articles, and has spoken at numerous international conferences. He has been appointed to various scientific advisory committees and panels.