Competition Divisions
NZLO is open to all students enrolled in New Zealand schools from Year 1 to Year 13. International schools are also welcome to participate. Students may enter a higher division if recommended by their school.
The Advanced division provides a pathway to the NZLO Training Pool, advanced training activities, and further linguistics problem-solving opportunities.
Competition Format
Selected students are invited to further stages based on performance, with advanced students progressing to additional training and development opportunities within the NZLO programme.
July
Registration Opens
Schools, students, and families register interest for the new NZLO season.
29
August
1:30pm-3pm
Round 1 / Competition
Students complete division-appropriate linguistics puzzles through school or approved sittings.
12
September
National Finals
Selected students progress to the national final and awards process.
February 2027
Training Camp
Selected students take part in intensive training in advanced linguistics problem solving, analytical reasoning, and collaborative problem-solving skills.
April 2027
Advanced Training Workshop
Selected students join a further workshop to strengthen analytical reasoning, teamwork, and advanced linguistics problem-solving skills.
Mid 2027
Advanced Student Programme
Selected students continue with higher-level training, enrichment activities, and future opportunities within the NZLO programme.
Fees and Accessibility
NZLO is committed to making linguistics competitions accessible to students across New Zealand. The School Round is free for all eligible secondary-school students.
For later stages, including the National Final, any participation fee will be kept nominal and limited to the basic direct expenses essential to running the competition. Fee waivers or subsidies will be available for students who need financial assistance, with application details published before registration opens.
NZLO welcomes voluntary donations to help support the programme. Donations are entirely optional and do not affect participation, competition results, progression, or selection.
Participation in NZLO and any future selection opportunities do not require the purchase of paid courses, materials, or training programmes.
Eligibility
The NZLO is open to all students enrolled in New Zealand schools from Year 1 to Year 13.
International schools are also welcome to participate.
Competition Schedule
