Young achievers: Proud moment for family of academic high-flyer

Premier Scholarship winner Nick Ward.

Nick Ward thought it was "very cool" to share a room with some of the country's brightest students. The former Lindisfarne College student was honoured at a ceremony at Parliament last week, as one of 10 Premier Scholarship winners in the country.

He was awarded his medal by Prime Minister John Key and Education Minister Hekia Parata.

His father Derek Ward said the award ceremony was a very proud moment for the family and for Lindisfarne College.

"Right from his early days at Te Mata Primary, Nick showed plenty of academic promise," Mr Ward said.

Nick likely would have had a promising career as a cricketer but has set his sport aside to pursue academic excellence. He was 1st XI captain at Lindisfarne College. "He trains like a sportsman for his academics," Mr Ward said.

"You really have to at that level."

The Top Subject scholar, who was also a prefect, is now undertaking a double degree in engineering and commerce at the University of Auckland this year.

"Eventually I would like to reach the top," he said, citing the academic opportunities at Lindisfarne as a key factor in his early success.

Nick said it was a very cool experience to share a room with some of New Zealand's most intelligent people.

"It was awesome to hear about all the amazing achievements from everyone, even outside of academics."

Nick said his conjoint degree is "pretty full on" at the moment but will look to rekindle his love of playing sport in second semester.

He would eventually like a job that incorporates both of his chosen fields.

Mr Key addressed the young men and women saying how fortunate they were to have such a great education system.

Almost 8000 students participated in the New Zealand Scholarship examinations last year, and some 2276 students were awarded one or more subject scholarships.

Richard Thornton, the NZQA's deputy chief executive, said the winning students would receive almost $3.7 million towards their tertiary study during the next three years.

"The students gaining New Zealand Scholarship are the best of the best and their hard work throughout the school year is reflected in their results."