Thirty-four students from 18 different schools in the district took part in the competition at West Rolleston School last week.
Hamish Taylor was awarded first place in the year 7 division.
His speech outlined the negative impacts video games have on society.
Samantha Parker from Tai Tapu School came second and Jessica McEwan from Templeton School was third.
Springston School’s Poppy Reily won the year 8 division with her speech on water pollution.
Ellesmere College’s Honor Barnett followed in second place, she spoke about why you shouldn’t hurry people in the morning.
Ben Dufaur from Halswell School took third place speaking on why everyone should join kapa haka.
The competition was sponsored by the Selwyn Lions Club.
First places were presented with trophies and $50 gift vouchers, second $30 gift vouchers and third $20 gift vouchers.
Club member Kathy Dore said it was great to see so many supporters listening to the marvellous speeches.
