Science has always interested Stratford High School student Matthew Kowalewski, this year's recipient of the $5000 Tag Oil scholarship.
Rodney Hosking, land liaison officer for Tag Oil, says the scholarship has been established with with Stratford High School to promote the oil and gas industry within the Stratford community.
"We look for well-rounded individuals who deliver academically and also have a positive influence at school." The recipient will be pursuing a career in engineering or geoscience and accepted into a bachelor programme at a tertiary institute withn New Zealand.
Matt, who is heading to Waikato University next year to start a double major in geology and physics, was chosen from six applicants.
"I have been interested in science since I was a lot younger, I am not entirely sure what I want as a career yet but I am looking forward to exploring my options."