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 Commissions, a tour of Parliament, and attending Question Time.

Please note that lunch and afternoon tea is not provided on this day.

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 Heads of Government Meeting

Date: Thu 27th - Fri 28th August

Time: 8:30am - 5:30pm

Location: New Zealand Parliament Buildings, 1 Molesworth Street, Pipitea, Wellington 6011

Who It's For: Year 11, 12, 13 high school students, from anywhere in New Zealand

Fees:

Early Bird Discount: No longer offered

Event Fee: $225

Chaperone: $150 (i.e. Teachers, Parents)

Registration fees for this year’s event include catering, venue, and other event costs.

Registrations will close on the Friday, the 7th of August at 11:59pm.

Scholarships (No longer receiving applications)

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.

Scholarships will be accepted on a rolling basis.

CYNZ has exhausted all available funding for scholarships. Thank you for your interest in applying.

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 assistance.

• 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 accommodation arrangements.

• Catering will not be provided on Orientation Day (due to the short duration). During the two-day conference there will be catering for your morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea.

• 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.