Ben Dowdle from Mairehau Primary School pupil was presented with his award certificate at a school assembly.
The awards were open to all year 6 pupils in New Zealand, and are part of a global movement created to acknowledge passionate children striving to improve the world around them.
A spokeswoman from the Fred Hollows Foundation said the humanity in Ben and other pupils who took out awards was “deeply evident”.
Said assistant principal Amanda Chisnall, who nominated Ben for the award: “Ben is a kind and caring pupil who goes out of his way to help others.”
“Nothing is ever an issue for Ben. He always puts in 110 per cent effort into everything that he sets his mind to. Ben truly embodies the values of compassion, integrity and kindness.”
About 70 pupils were nominated for the awards across New Zealand, and Ben said it was an honour to receive the certificate.
He “felt special that not everyone could be nominated” and is looking to develop his leadership skills within the school.
