Miss Nicholson is studying for a certificate in agriculture at Telford, near Balclutha.
Originally from Oropi, near Tauranga, the 19-year-old was first attracted south in 2010 to complete equine studies at Telford, after completing her first year by correspondence in 2009.
She gained certificates with distinction in both intermediate and advanced equine and will graduate this year with a certificate in agriculture.
"I've always had a passion for the outdoors and used to show horses, which is why I studied equine."
She also planned to return next year to study towards a diploma in rural business.
Miss Nicholson said her qualifications from Telford would help her enter the agricultural industry and she hoped to gain work on a South Island dairy farm, with a view to becoming a manager before owning her own dairy farm.
"Dairy is pretty relaxed and you do something different every day."
She chose to attend Telford because she had heard it offered good courses involving both theory and practical work.
"I especially enjoy the practical, hands-on experience that allows students a head start on the real life of the industry," she said.
The council presented Miss Nicholson with her $1500 bursary at its meeting on Thursday, with councillors congratulating her on her speech and for obtaining the award.
The bursary was created in 1993 by the Clutha District Council and is awarded each year to a Telford student studying towards a diploma in agriculture and/or certificate in agriculture.
