She was one of 10 students who spent a fortnight in Dunedin attending English language classes, tourist destinations, the University of Otago and Otago Polytechnic and doing work experience.
The group also visited Queenstown.
Cr Staynes said he hoped the students, who had shown enthusiasm and interest during their visit, would return to Dunedin one day.
He presented the group with a glass plate featuring the koru and fern.
The students spoke of the wonderful opportunities they had experienced, including going fishing, visiting Baldwin St, going up the gondola in Queenstown, the fresh air and the politeness of drivers.