Liam Zhao Claims Historic Astronomy Olympiad Medal

College student Liam Zhao (Year 12) has recently returned from Hanoi with a Bronze medal from the 19th International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics (IOAA 2026). The effort has resulted in New Zealand’s first medals in the competition’s history.

This year’s event was the largest IOAA to date, bringing about 320 contestants from 64 countries and territories. Over four days, students tackled theoretical problems, telescope observations, data analysis and planetarium tasks under strict time pressure.

Liam’s achievement reflects study beyond the school curriculum alongside his IB commitments. He credited the school’s encouragement for helping turn his interest in science into an opportunity to represent New Zealand internationally. The College is incredibly proud of this achievement.

Liam has his sights set on returning to the Olympiad in 2027 to improve on his result. Long term, he plans to continue developing his astronomy and astrophysics passions during his tertiary studies when he graduates from Saint Kentigern.