Each year, four scholarships — valued at up to $32,500 per student — are awarded to outstanding young West Coasters beginning their tertiary journey. These scholarships are designed to remove financial barriers, support personal and academic growth, and create pathways back to meaningful careers on the Coast.
“We’re focused on keeping and growing our local talent, encouraging skilled graduates to return to the Coast, helping businesses find the people they need,” says Heath Milne, Chief Executive of DWC. “We’re looking forward to seeing this year’s applicants and hearing about their aspirations.”
The scholarships include summer work placements and guaranteed employment on the West Coast after graduation — a unique opportunity to gain real-world experience while staying connected to home.
DWC currently supports 16 scholarship recipients, which will grow to 20 this year.
Students entering tertiary study for the first time in 2026 are encouraged to apply. More information: www.westcoast.co.nz/scholarships
Applications close at noon, 1 September
DWC is also proud to support Westland Mineral Sands (WMS) in offering their second scholarship, which matches the value of the DWC scholarships at $32,500 per student. Students interested in the WMS scholarship can apply via their website: www.wmsnz.com
Past Scholarship recipients
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