A passionate Northland marine conservationist has scooped a national Seaweek award.
Experiencing Marine Reserves founder Samara Nicholas has been named the Ocean Champion for Seaweek 2018.
Seaweek national co-ordinator Dr Mels Barton said the Ocean Champion initiative celebrates all those individuals, groups and organisations who work hard to look after the sea and marine life.
"It is wonderful to have a winner who has dedicated her life to inspiring future generations to value and protect our marine environment," Ms Barton said.
Ms Nicholas is a founding trustee and programme director of the Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust, and played a key role in Kamo High School's marine reserve proposal and establishment. She is also a representative on the Whangarei Harbour Marine Reserve advisory committee.