Tauranga's Melanie Knottenbelt is swapping science studies for sun, sand and surf this summer holidays as she diches the lab coat for a navy blue summer ambassadors T-shirt.

As one of the six Tauranga City Council Summer Ambassadors, the 20-year-old Otago University Bachelor of Science student will be out and about with fellow ambassadors spreading important summer messages about liquor-free zones, buses, events and New Year's Eve information, from 10am-4.30pm daily until January 11.

Zach Latif and Jesse Morgan and ladies Brittany Waters-Bright, Alex Gardner, Melanie Knottenbelt get ready to spread summer messages. Photo: Tracy Hardy.

Based at the Beach Base below Mount Drury, the young advisors will also be handing out summer passports and other giveaways to beachgoers.

Melanie saw the opportunity on Student Job Search while at university and applied straight away.

'The job description was talking to locals and helping them out and walking around the beach, which are some of the things I like to do.

'I have worked in hospitality before so I enjoy that line of work – and you get to be out in the sun and everything and on the beach with everyone which is always good fun.

'It's just a good way to spend the summer holidays for a short period of time.”

Bay of Plenty born and bred, Melanie has a good idea of how to spend the summer holidays.

'Summer is getting out there and enjoying the sun, having fun with the family and catching up with friends – and getting involved with what's on.

'I just enjoy having a break from university and getting out there, trying new things.”

Look out for the summer ambassadors at the Beach Base, or keep an eye out on the beaches, in the streets and at shopping areas for the 2014/2015 Summer Ambassadors.

'We're all friendly and are happy to help,” says Melanie.

The Hits Beach Bach will also be running next to the Beach Base, with Will Johnston presenting live from the site running games and giveaways – and of course the popular, free, daily midday barbecue.

For more information, visit www.tauranga.govt.nz or the Hey Tauranga Facebook page.