Thirteen students from across New Zealand have been awarded prestigious scholarships.
The Minister of Education and Ngarimu Board Chair, Erica Stanford, announced the winners today. The recipients embody determination, commitment, and exceptional leadership qualities that mirror the valiant men of the 28th (Māori) Battalion. The awards pay homage to heroes of the battalion and Victoria Cross recipient Second Lieutenant Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa Ngarimu.
The students are from various iwi (Māori tribes), including Ngāti Porou, Ngāi Tahu, and Muriwhenua. They were also recognized for their exceptional work in the 2024 Ngarimu Video Competition and the inaugural Ngarimu Waiata Composition Competition. Minister Stanford acknowledged the late Sir Robert Gillies, whose legacy serves as a reminder of the extraordinary sacrifices made by the men of the 28th (Māori) Battalion.
The ongoing work of the Board members and recipients will ensure the memory of the 28th (Māori) Battalion lives on.