The highest achieving New Zealand Scholarship students from 2025 were celebrated at Parliament this afternoon, receiving awards at the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) annual Top Scholar Awards ceremony.
“The Top Scholar Awards celebrate the exceptional commitment and academic excellence of these students,” says NZQA Chief Executive Dr Grant Klinkum.
Prime Minister Rt Hon Christopher Luxon presented former St Cuthbert's College student Ava Dilly with the Prime Minister’s Award for Academic Excellence, recognising her as the top-achieving participant in New Zealand Scholarship.
Ava Dilly received Outstanding Scholarships in Biology, Classics, English, and Geography; and Scholarships in Chemistry, Health and Physical Education, Latin, Media Studies, and Statistics.
The Minister of Education also presented 13 Premier Awards; while NZQA Board Chair, Kevin Jenkins, presented awards to the highest achieving students in each of the 39 New Zealand Scholarship subjects.
“These awards reflect not only the hard work and talent of the students themselves, but also the vital support provided by their families, teachers, and schools,” Dr Klinkum says.
“As well as celebrating individual excellence, the Top Scholar Awards inspire future students to set ambitious goals and strive for academic success.”
More than 10,700 students entered for one or more New Zealand Scholarship examinations in 2025, with 2,740 students awarded one or more scholarships.
Watch video of the ceremony and find out more about the 2025 Top Scholars.