What is CHOGM?
The biannual Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) is where leaders of Commonwealth countries assemble and deliberate future policy direction. More information about CHOGM can be found here.
What is Student CHOGM?
Student CHOGM (or SCHOGM) is Commonwealth Youth’s annual flagship event. It provides an opportunity for high school students to immerse themselves in international relations and develop a greater understanding of world issues. The three-day event is rife with debate, discussion, and personal development.
During SCHOGM, students from across Aotearoa New Zealand will meet at a conference and represent a Commonwealth country, acting as their Head of Government or Foreign Minister. The conference is designed for students to steer through political crises, and grapple with grave concerns facing today's Commonwealth countries.
Orientation Day
Date: Wed 26th of August
Time: 12:00pm to 4:00pm
Location: Delegates will be informed of their individual schedules, including locations, closer to the date
This year we’re adding an exciting new element to our conference, orientation day! This day will consist of visits to partnering High Comissions, a tour of Parliament, and attending Question Time.
Reception
Date: Wed 26th of August
Time: 6:00pm to 8:00pm - To be confirmed
Location: To Be Determined
Attire: Black Tie Optional, Business Formal, Formal School Uniform
A reception will be hosted on the evening prior to the commencement of Student CHOGM.
Student Commonwealth Healds of Government Meeting
Date: Thur 27th - Fri 28th August
Time: 8:30am - 5:30pm
Location: National Library of New Zealand, 70 Molesworth Street, Thorndon, Wellington 6011
Who It's For: Year 11, 12, 13 high school students, from anywhere in New Zealand
Fees:
Early Bird Discount: $200
Regular Fee: $225
Chaperone: $125 (i.e. Teachers, Parents)
Registration fees for this year’s event include catering, venue, and other event costs. Apply before the 1st of July to be eligible for the Early Bird discount!
Registrations will close on the Friday, the 7th of August at 11:59pm.
Scholarships:
Event-only: Covers the cost of the event fee.
Regional Scholarships: Covers the cost of the event fee and flights/transport to and from Wellington.
Apply early! Scholarships will be accepted on a rolling basis.
Depending on donations given to CYNZ and the outcome of grants, we may be able to offer financial aid scholarships this year. If you need financial aid to attend this event please submit your application as soon as possible.
It is recommended that you have a referee for your application. You’ll be able to apply as part of the registration form below.
Additional Notes
You’re eligible for the early bird discount by simply applying by the 1st of July - payment is not required.
Payment will be due for all registrations by the 14th of August, 2026. If you are unable to pay by this date, please contact us for further assisstance.
You will not be able to attend the event without prior full payment.
Successful scholarship applicants will be notified on an ongoing basis.
Unsuccessful scholarship applicants will be notified as soon as there is no further possibility to offer scholarships.
If you wish to attend from outside of Wellington, you must make your own travel and accomodation arrangements.
Chaperones are not mandatory. Students are able to attend the event independently, but must have their guardians’ approval (unless 18 years old).
By registering for this event you agree to CYNZs Code of Conduct.
