A young Hawke’s Bay student has made her region proud after winning first place at the 2026 GreatTalk National Speech Competition, demonstrating that age is no barrier to...
A young Hawke’s Bay student has made her region proud after winning first place at the 2026 GreatTalk National Speech Competition, demonstrating that age is no barrier to achievement.
HAWKE’S BAY, 27 September 2026: Ten-year-old Renee Kundu has achieved national recognition after securing first place in her category at the GreatTalk National Speech Competition.
Renee received her award at the competition’s grand final, held in Auckland on 13 September 2026.
Her achievement was featured by NZ Herald’s Hawke’s Bay Today as part of its On the Up series, which celebrates the accomplishments of people across the region.
A national achievement at just 10 years old
The GreatTalk National Speech Competition brings together young speakers from across New Zealand, providing a platform for students to demonstrate their public-speaking abilities.
Renee competed in the Years 5–6 category, earning first place at the national final.
Her achievement represents a significant milestone for the young Hawke’s Bay student, who successfully competed on a national stage.
The competition encourages students to develop their communication skills, organise their thoughts and present ideas confidently before an audience.
Celebrating young talent
Public speaking is a valuable skill that extends well beyond the classroom.
Competitions such as GreatTalk provide young people with opportunities to develop confidence, express their ideas and strengthen their communication abilities.
Renee’s success highlights the talent emerging from Hawke’s Bay and the achievements of young New Zealanders who are prepared to challenge themselves.
At just 10 years old, she has already secured a national title and an achievement worth celebrating.
Her first-place certificate and trophy mark a memorable moment in her public-speaking journey.
Congratulations to Renee Kundu on her outstanding achievement!
Original source: NZ Herald / Hawke’s Bay Today
Photo credit: NZ Herald / Hawke’s Bay Today.
