Outstanding success at international level and his dedication to sport has earned a Tauranga-based University of Waikato student a prestigious New Zealand Universities Blues Award.

Surf life-saver Andrew Newton, 26, is among 11 Waikato University students to receive the national award, which is likely to be presented at the University's own Blues Awards ceremony later this year.

Andrew, who is the only recipient from the Tauranga campus, also won a Waikato University Blue last year.

Andrew is half-way through his Diploma of Teaching (primary) and says he was absolutely stoked to be receiving the prestigious blues award for the 2011 year.

'Last year went really well for me, making the New Zealand team for the international surf challenge last February and winning the national board race in March, so it's really great to be recognised for those achievements.

'I'm back into intensive winter training with renewed energy and my next major goal is making the New Zealand team for the 2013 international surf challenge being held in Japan.”

Andrew moved to Tauranga from Dunedin seven years ago, keen to base himself in the surf life-saving heartland of New Zealand.

A natural teacher who had always wanted to work with people, Andrew enrolled in the University of Waikato's Bachelor of Teaching programme last year.

He now combines study and teaching practicums with his training regime, which currently involves up to 12 sessions a week, either in the pool or gym, or out in the kayak, on the surf-ski or running.

He credits being part of Waikato University's Sir Edmund Hillary Scholarship programme as a huge support to his weekly schedule.

'The support from trainers and mentors takes away the barriers to learning while competing and training at a high level.

'I still have to put in the hard yards like everyone else and maintain good grades, but if I need to be out of town competing then I'm supported to take those opportunities.”

University of Waikato high performance student manager Greg O'Carroll says Andrew has succeeded at the upper level of representation in his sport and deserved to be recognised for his commitment and achievements.

'He's a committed young man in his sport as well as his studies so it's a very well-earned award. We're delighted for him.”