Eastern Bay Engineering Student Awarded $10,000 Scholarship

Eastern Bay local Lara Longney has been awarded a $10,000 scholarship to support her studies in electrical and electronic engineering, thanks to Trust Horizon and the Aruhiko Power Engineering Excellence Trust (PEET).

Now in her third year at the University of Canterbury, Lara was selected for the select Horizon & Aruhiko scholarship, which supports future leaders in New Zealand’s power engineering industry.

Lara’s interest in renewable energy began at a young age.

“We always had two solar panels on our roof, and in intermediate school I did a project to see how much money they were saving us,” she says.“Seeing first-hand how we could generate electricity from a source you can’t even see made me realise the amazing power of renewable energy.”

Her passion continued to grow throughout her time at Whakatāne High School, where she was named Dux.

Now completing a Bachelor of Engineering with Honours at UC, Lara is particularly interested in power system stability and how to integrate renewable energy into daily life without harming the environment or the national grid.

“I’m particularly focused on power system stability, and how we can integrate more renewable energy into our daily lives without harming the environment or network,” she explains.

The scholarship programme, launched in 2022, is designed to inspire and support the next generation of electrical engineers. Each year, up to three students from the Eastern Bay of Plenty studying at the University of Canterbury or the University of Auckland receive $10,000 to aid their academic journey.

Trust Horizon Trustee Merrin Stables praised Lara’s application, noting her academic achievements and work experience.

“Lara’s dedication to her field is clear. The Trust commends her passion for renewable energy and her clear vision of the role it can play in New Zealand’s future. We’re thrilled to be able to support her academic journey as she heads into the final years of her studies.”

With the help of the scholarship, Lara plans to attend both local and international conferences, and visit the Manapōuri hydro power station in the South Island.

“When you’re studying, you get to learn about these things theoretically, but seeing them in person really gives you a sense of the sheer scale of the hydros,” says Lara. “It’s not always easy to finance your studies, and the scholarship will be a great help.”

Looking ahead, Lara hopes to play a meaningful role in shaping the future of electricity in Aotearoa and contribute to innovative, sustainable power solutions.