Maeva-Rua Kopa, of Blue Mountain College, won the TrustPower Clutha youth community spirit award.
The 17-year-old teaches guitar and ukulele, has a leadership role in kapa haka and has been involved with the West Otago Theatrical Society, Stage Challenge, school productions and fundraising for Christchurch earthquake relief. She also plays football, cricket, netball and social volleyball.
Maeva-Rua said she loved kapa haka because it reminded her of her culture, Cook Island Maori.
She received a framed certificate and $500- $250 for herself and $250 for Kidz Way Early Learning Centre, the community group of her choice.
"It was great to get the award. It's a reminder that people are watching and they really care and notice what is happening in the community."
Blue Mountain College principal Lindy Cavanagh-Monaghan said, while it was always difficult to select just one pupil, she believed Maeva-Rua "epitomised" the community spirit recognised through the award.
TrustPower community relations representative Jess Somerville said Maeva-Rua had thrown herself into school life "wholeheartedly" and was a very talented pupil making a positive difference in her community.
