Mr Lou Sanson, QSO, of Wanaka, for services to conservation and public service
Lou Sanson has been Conservator for Southland Conservancy, CEO of Antarctica New Zealand, and Director-General of Conservation.
He led the Department of Conservation to successfully deliver projects, while maintaining positive relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders.
He has focused on improving biodiversity and systems to prevent the continued loss of taonga species. His strong relationships enabled him to successfully deliver major regional projects.
He was Crown negotiator for the Ngai Tahu Deed Settlement Act on the Titi lslands/Whenua Hou Settlements. He has helped New Zealand meet obligations in international conservation agreements and been a leader in responding to natural disasters nationally.
Mr Sanson has overseen the launch of the Predator Free New Zealand Strategy and the Aotearoa New Zealand Biodiversity Strategy and encouraged investments in job-generating conservation projects.