Risaleaana named Nelson's top sportswoman

Olympic gold medalist Risaleaana Pouri-Lane has been named Bowater Motor Group Sportswoman of the Year at the ASB Nelson Sports Awards this evening.

The Motueka sevens star took out the accolade at the Nelson Sports Awards this evening.

"It was a huge shock when they announced it to me because I had no idea."

Risaleaana says her accomplishments are not just her own.

"There are so many people who have allowed me to achieve what I have."

The 21-year-old was a member of the Black Ferns Sevens side which defeated France 26-12 to win gold at the Tokyo Olympics, redeeming the heartbreak of finishing second to Australia in Rio five years ago.

"I had been to a youth olympics before but this was ten times bigger."

Growing up in Motueka, Risaleaana says she is proof that you don't have to be living in a huge city to achieve your goals.

Risaleaana's win comes on the back of winning Tasman's Junior Sportswoman of the Year in 2018.

She says it hasn't been an easy journey but an incredibly rewarding one.

"All the sacrifices you have to make but it's all worth it. I am just grateful for all the opportunities I've been given to allow me to do what I do.