Kyle Whorrall Biological Sciences Prize

Kyle Whorrall was a kind soul, a naturalist at heart, and someone who saw wonder in the smallest creatures. Born in California, his fascination with the outdoors and insects began at an early age. Over the years, he volunteered with zoological and environmental organisations, travelled over the world to help catalogue new species, and ultimately pursued a PhD in entomology at the University of Auckland. He spoke softly but carried genuine enthusiasm; colleagues remember him as polite, humble, and driven by a desire to contribute meaningfully to science and ecology. 

Tragically, Kyle was attacked on 19 April 2025 and later died in hospital, just months from submitting his completed thesis. In the wake of his loss, communities in Auckland and beyond have mourned deeply, planting memorial trees and leaving tributes. 

This prize fund will honour Kyle’s memory by helping students who carry his passion forward; those who believe in science, stewardship, curiosity, and care for the natural world.

Our aim is to raise funds that will support a $1,000 Prize awarded annually for many years to come. In any year, that a $1,000 total is not achieved, the donations will be used to support the Faculty of Science Student Support Fund.