We are delighted to share the news that Steve Butler, leader of RASNZ's Dark Sky Group, has been given the Hoag-Robinson Award by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) in recognition for his services. Congratulations Steve and thank you very much for all that you have done and are doing to protect and preserve New Zealand dark skies.

The Dr. Arthur Hoag and William T. Robinson Award

This award is given to an outstanding individual who has educated governmental organizations, businesses, and the public about the merits of outdoor lighting control ordinances.

For 30 years, Steve Butler has drawn widespread attention to light pollution issues in the South Island of New Zealand. His diploma in Environmental Management from Auckland University has led him to develop design protocols, lighting guidelines, and ordinances for the Mackenzie District, NZ. Steve’s professional background was for much of his career working for the Department of Conservation in Southland. This government department is charged with protecting land in the conservation estate, including national parks and numerous reserves. In 2009 he served as the New Zealand contact for the 2009 IAU/UNESCO International Year of Astronomy. As a result of his expertise and engagement, Steve was an active member of the Working Party, which led to the IDA recognition of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve 2012. His advocacy also led to IDA recognition of the Great Barrier Island in 2017 and Rakiura Stewart Island in 2019 as Dark Sky Sanctuaries, and the Wai-iti Dark Sky Park in 2020. Following a rural forum adoption of a remit at the 2019 International Starlight Conference, Steve has actively promoted NZ as a Dark Sky Nation.

Steve is also an amateur astronomer. In 2002 he joined the Royal Astronomical Society of New Zealand (RASNZ) and, since 2020, has served as its president. He founded the RASNZ Dark Skies group the year after joining the society and has been the group leader ever since. Throughout his professional and volunteering careers, Steve has excelled for his quiet efficiency and tireless energy, and he is widely respected for his deep knowledge of lighting-related legislative matters. 

https://www.darksky.org/announcing-the-2022-ida-award-recipients/