Macleans College students represent New Zealand at International Mathematics Olympiad
Posted on July 30, 2025
Year 13 Macleans College students Alston Yam (Mansfield House) and Jay Zhao (Rutherford) have returned from the Sunshine Coast after competing in the 66th International Mathematics Olympiad (IMO).
Selection for the New Zealand team required students to meet demanding academic standards, reflecting years of dedication and hard work. While Macleans College has previously had students represent New Zealand at eight IMO events, this is the first time more than one student has been selected in the same year.
Alston and Jay competed among 700 students from 110 countries. The New Zealand team placed 38th overall, earning two silver and three bronze medals. Jay, now a two-time IMO representative, received a silver medal on both occasions. He is Macleans College’s highest-achieving student at the IMO and ranks as the third highest-achieving New Zealand student in the event’s history.
The school is proud of both students - not only for their accomplishments, but also for their humility and commitment to others. For the past three years, Alston and Jay have led the Macleans College Lunchtime Mathematics Olympiad Training Group, generously sharing their knowledge and enthusiasm with younger students.
Representing New Zealand at the IMO is the pinnacle of student achievement in mathematics. Alston and Jay’s success reflects their motivation, discipline and passion for the subject.
