Representing New Zealand has been a lifelong dream for Tauranga's Hamish Miller who has not only made the Junior Black Fins team, but has also been named captain.

He will be supported by vice-captain Hannah Williams as the team of 12 prepare for Rescue 2016, the Lifesaving World Championships, in The Netherlands this September.

Hamish Miller has been named junior Black Fins captain. File photo.

The 17-year-old is a member of Mount Maunganui Volunteer Lifeguard Service.

He also represented the New Zealand Youth team at the 2015 International Surf Rescue Challenge and more recently won silver at the Australian Surf Life Saving Championships in the U17 Male 2km Beach Run New Zealand Surf Lifesaving says in a media release.

Team manager Ange Johnston says it was an easy decision to appoint Hamish as captain as he has demonstrated good leadership and maturity.

"We know he will do a great job at leading his fellow athletes along with the support of Hannah, who was part of the New Zealand Youth team for Rescue 2014 in France."

The Lifesaving World Championships are taking place from September 1-8 in Eindhoven Noordwijk.

New Zealand will be sending two teams to compete in the National Teams competition. The defending champions the New Zealand Black Fins will be aiming for three championship wins in a row, while the New Zealand Junior Black Fins are setting their sights on gold after coming in second place in 2014.