Spencer Potbury (23)

23 year old environmental scientist and conservationist Spencer Potbury is the recipient of the AIMES Service to the Community Award for 2023.

Spencer is a graduate with First Class Honours in Applied Conservation from AUT University. He is also a NIWA Freshwater BLAKE Ambassador, a Forest and Bird Youth Co-coordinator, a BLAKE Inspire freshwater expert and a School Streamcare educator.

Spencer says every part of his life is dedicated to the outdoors and sharing the beauty of our planet with those in his life, the public, and generally anyone who will listen.

He works as an Environmental Scientist that includes roles as an aquatic invertebrate taxonomist and an environmental consultant. A favourite part has been working alongside the Kaipatiki Project to deliver their ‘School Streamcare’ programs with eight Primary and Intermediate schools across the Kaipatiki region. This involved the monitoring of fish, invertebrates and water quality variables.

Spencer has been a leader for Forest and Bird Youth Auckland, leading numerous social media and in-person events to offer environmental/conservation learning. This has predominantly taken place in Hosking Reserve, near Albany, and has included community trapping days servicing pest trap and bait stations, as well as educating and upskilling youth in environmental work.

Spencer is also a guide with Experiencing Marine Reserves. He volunteers to give free guided snorkel and kayak tours through marine environments. Spencer says watching kids see their first eagle ray and learn about dynamics between our commercial fish species, kina, and the health of our reefs is always inspiring and endearing.

As a BLAKE NIWA Freshwater Ambassador, Spencer shares his experiences working with the NIWA aquatic pollution team and their research and implementation of algaebased treatment systems.

Spencer says he has a passion for the environment and sharing this with others. “Our planet is the greatest treasure that we have, and it’s our job to protect it. Increases in environmental awareness have led to climate anxiety and well-founded concerns for the future of our society and planet. Having strong, passionate role models and influencers is essential for bringing hope for the future and ensuring that something can be done”.

Spencer’s goal is to undertake a PhD. AIMES Award grant funds will be used for further study and to support his volunteer work.