Sir Peter Blake Trust chief executive Shelley Campbell said it was a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to one of the most unique and special places on the planet.
"The expedition aims to inspire an understanding of the global significance of the Kermadec Islands and to encourage stewardship of the Kermadec Marine Reserve. In the latter part of his life, the plight of the planet's oceans was a huge concern to Sir Peter."
The 30 students will be chosen from 50 participants at next year's Sir Peter Blake Youth EnviroLeaders' Forum. They will be accompanied by scientists, artists, educators, communicators and leaders.
The Kermadec Islands are 1000km northeast of New Zealand. The 13 volcanic islands are a nature reserve managed by the Department of Conservation.
The 745,000ha of ocean surrounding the Kermadecs are protected as New Zealand's largest marine reserve.
The expedition crew will have the opportunity to snorkel and gain an understanding of the rich marine life of the Kermadecs. They will experience life on Raoul Island and gain an insight into the work of the DOC personnel, the Kermadecs' history, and the group's wildlife and plants.
