Prizegiving: a celebration & a send off
Avondale College's Senior Prizegiving 2026 celebrated the achievements of students who demonstrated excellence in academics, leadership, service, sport, the arts, and wider school life. The ceremony recognised students who attained top placings in their subjects, alongside those who received special awards and trophies in acknowledgement of their outstanding contributions to the College.
A particular highlight of the evening was the recognition of student success through the presentation of scholarships. Collectively, Avondale College students secured more than $360,000 from tertiary institutions, helping to support both study and accommodation costs as they take their next steps beyond secondary school.
Before the close of the evening, the long-awaited awards for our highest academic achievers were announced. The Cambridge Dux award was presented to Rudra Patel, with Olive Allen named Cambridge Proxime Accessit. The NCEA Dux award was presented to Tanya Gupta, while Savindi Dissanayake was named NCEA Proxime Accessit.
Awards were presented by distinguished guests, former Head Girl Dr Claire Achamd and Fonoiā Professor Jemaima Tiatia-Siau, while Head Prefects Lola Kelleher and Marco Li reflected on their time at the College and shared their hopes for the future through their valedictory addresses.
The presentation of awards was interspersed with performances from the Gospel Choir and Chamber Orchestra, while jazz ensemble Swing 46 provided the recessional music.
Senior Prizegiving remains one of the highlights of the school year, bringing together students, whānau, staff, and guests to recognise excellence and celebrate the many successes of our senior students. As our Year 13 students prepare for their next chapter, we wish them every success in their future studies, careers, and endeavours.
A full list of award winners can be found below:
