About the Sir Edmund Hillary Scholarship Programme
Learn more about the Sir Edmund Hillary Scholarship Programme that supports high achievers in sport or arts alongside academic excellence.
Inspiring excellence, all-round development and leadership
Established in 2005, the Sir Edmund Hillary Scholarship is among one of the most prestigious awards offered by the University of Waikato. Named in honour of New Zealand’s greatest adventurer, the scholarship instils Sir Ed’s values, inspired by the belief that “Together, we believe the impossible is a summit to be conquered.”
Hillary Scholars are supported to excel in three pillars:
- Sport, creative or performing arts
- Academic achievement
- Leadership
Hillary Scholars gain comprehensive support relevant to their discipline, as well as opportunities for leadership and personal development. They also benefit from connections with regional, national, and international partners, spanning fields such as sport, music, theatre, design, dance, and Māori creative and performing arts.
Graduates join a distinguished network of Hillary alumni, many of whom continue to achieve extraordinary success in their chosen paths—whether as performers, athletes, academics, or in entirely new fields.
Sir Edmund Hillary
Prior to his passing in 2008, Sir Edmund Hillary served as patron of the Hillary Scholarship Programme, embodying and championing its philosophy of excellence and leadership across academia, sport, and the creative arts.
A source of inspiration for all New Zealanders, Sir Edmund Hillary was particularly passionate about encouraging young people to push their limits and achieve their potential.
In 2006, the University of Waikato honoured Sir Edmund Hillary with an Honorary Doctorate, acknowledging his legendary accomplishments in mountaineering, exploration, philanthropy, and environmental conservation, along with the profound alignment of his values and success with those of the University.