Home and Away star Kawakawa Fox-Reo hints at fresh direction for Nikau

 "I think it's the beginning of something new."

Home and Away star Kawakawa Fox-Reo has spoken to about future plans for his character Nikau Parata.

Next week's UK episodes see Nikau receive an exciting opportunity after a dramatic rescue out in the sea.

Nikau has been working as a volunteer lifeguard in recent months. In upcoming scenes on Channel 5, he rushes to the rescue of Summer Bay newcomer Millie, who walks out into the sea fully clothed and almost drowns.

After Nikau successfully saves Millie, he considers his future in the lifeguard role as it's unpaid.

Not wanting to lose his star lifesaver, John Palmer steps in to make a pitch to the local council, arguing that Nikau should have a full-time paid position.

Speaking about the upcoming scenes, Kawakawa told : "It was lots of fun to film the Millie rescue scenes. I spent lots of time in the water.

"It took a few takes. Shooting out on the water is a little bit of a challenge for the crew, but it was an awesome experience. I was pleased about Nikau getting the full-time position, for sure. It's very noble work and… it beats modelling!

"As long as I get in the water, I'm happy. I'm looking forward to seeing how Nikau copes with the challenges as a lifeguard."

Nikau's new job comes as various characters close to him have bowed out from the show.

Ari Parata, Mia Anderson and Ryder Jackson have all departed the soap on UK screens recently, while Australian viewers have also seen Bella Nixon leave for New York.

On the cast changes, Kawakawa added: "It always sucks saying goodbye. Sometimes it can be tricky keeping in touch with everyone, but I hope they're all doing well.

"I think it's now time for Nikau to start making new relationships, and with this new job and new position, it creates an opportunity to meet a whole bunch of people. I think it's the beginning of something new maybe."

Home and Away airs weekdays at 1.15pm on Channel 5 and 6pm on 5STAR. First-look screenings air at 6.30pm on 5STAR and the show also streams on My5. Selected classic episodes are available via Amazon Prime Video in the UK.