"There's so many great things in the wider community."
The award, a Primary Science Teacher Fellowship Alumni Award, came after her fellowship into the society in 2012. Her interest in science was only sparked after becoming a teacher and further encouraged by the fellowship.
"I thought what a good opportunity to learn a little bit more," Ms Hakaraia said. "I found more of a passion about being with the Royal Society."
The fellowship saw her work alongside the Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust, with the society paying a substitute teacher for the six months she was away.
In the past three years, she has been working to integrate science into all aspects of school life - including everything from monitoring a local stream for whitebait, to keeping an impressive vege garden and upskilling other teachers.
The pupils are now so engaged in science they are often coming to her with questions and ideas.
Royal Society of New Zealand chief executive Andrew Cleland, who presented the award, said the idea of integration was important.
"Unfortunately people tend to talk about science but this is the doing," Dr Cleland said.
Primary schools were increasingly being asked to do more, which squeezed their time, he said.
"If kids are motivated by these kinds of experiences which are fun, then it makes the numeracy and literacy more meaningful."
Otaika Valley School principal Terry Brock said the award provided a "significant" amount of funding.
"This award acknowledges Ms Hakaraia's devotion to our school environment and science in general over this time."
