Samantha Dryden and Niels de Beer were presented with Young Totara Awards by Ferrymead Rotary in recognition of their work in the community.
Samantha is an avid conservationist with special interest in ecology and climate change.
She lives in Halswell but regularly volunteers at Charlesworth Reserve, Ferrymead often travelling by bus.
She loves the work and does anything that is needed… weeding, planting, pruning, digging holes.
She says she enjoys the company of like-minded people, no matter age, and the opportunities to learn.
Niels, who has been involved with the Taylors Mistake Surf Lifesaving Club for 10 years has recently become a member of the Sumner Coastguard team. He has learnt skills in first aid, team building and leadership. Niels and his family joined the club after emigrating from the Netherlands.
Rotary’s Young Totara Award seeks to recognise the positive achievements of young people, promote sound role models for youth, and foster responsible attitudes towards the community.