Year 5 Deanwell School student Jack Ratai was honoured last week for his school achievements.
Jack, 9, was the recipient of the Leigh and Betty Dunbar Young Achievers Award which is administered by Asthma Waikato.
The award came about after a bequest from Betty Dunbar to recognise the achievements of young people with asthma who do well in any sphere, be it academic, sport, social or community activities. The award is open to children aged 5-13 who have overcome the difficulties of living with asthma or other respiratory conditions. Jack is the award's first recipient.
Jack, who was nominated by his school, is an active participant in hockey, achieves highly in numeracy and literacy and is a good all-round citizen.
Principal Pat Poland said Jack didn't let asthma from preventing him from doing things he loves.