News release Auckland, 28 September, 2005

Student Ambassador for Animals –

NZ Finalists Announced As part of a global celebration for World Animal Week, the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) recently launched a nationwide schools search to find New Zealand’s first student Ambassador for Animals.

Students from year 9 to 12 were encouraged to submit an essay detailing how they can ‘make a world of difference’ to animals. The first round of judging took place shortly after the close of competition when the following eight finalists were selected; Nick Law – Whakatane, Tara Jackson – Timaru, Emily Beale – Invercargill, Emma Jordan – Te Awamutu, Melissa Williams – Greymouth, Scott Thomas – Rotorua, Erika Lennon – Kaitaia and Laurien Heijs – North Shore, Auckland.

Finalists will travel to Auckland to take part in a face to face interview on Thursday 29 September with the judging panel comprising of; SPCA Auckland Chief Executive, Bob Kerridge, Shortland Street star, Laura Hill, radio and television personality Mike Puru and WSPA New Zealand Regional Manager, Kimberly Muncaster. The winner will be announced on Monday 10 October.

Speaking on behalf of the judges, WSPA Regional Manager, Kimberly Muncaster said that they were all thrilled with the number of entries received from across New Zealand. “Entries were received from as far north as Kaitaia and as far south as Invercargill, with a lot in between” said Ms Muncaster.

The judges said that in addition to some “excellent writing, each and every entry demonstrated a genuine concern for animals and a strong desire to make a difference.” said Ms Muncaster.

The winner of the competition, their chaperone and a WSPA representative will travel to Bali to work alongside WSPA member society, ‘The Bali Street Dog Foundation’ to help solve the stray dog problem as well as learn more about the culture of the Balinese people. The winning student will also meet some of the children who belong to the WSPA Kindness Clubs that have now attracted more than 65,000 members worldwide.

World Animal Week runs from the 4th to 10th October, and will give New Zealanders and people around the globe a chance to celebrate their love for animals, whilst recognising the incredible achievements which are being made by individuals and organisations around the world.

ENDS

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