The 18-year-old learned he had won a Russell McVeagh scholarship and a University of Otago Leaders of Tomorrow scholarship to study for a double degree in law and arts at Otago University next year, and then was told he had earned an associate diploma of public speaking and declaration of excellence from Speech New Zealand.
The diploma is an unusual achievement for a secondary school pupil and involves passing both practical and theory exams.
The Russell McVeagh scholarship provides financial assistance, mentoring and holiday employment for the duration of his law studies at university.
The Otago University scholarship is a one-off grant for fees and living costs.
Oliver said the Russell McVeagh scholarship was valuable, not only for its financial assistance but also for mentoring by a partner during his studies and the experience he would gain through holiday employment.
"It will especially help when it comes to making decisions about law studies and what to specialise in," he said.
