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New Zealand
LINGUISTICS
Olympiad
NZLO
2026-2027

French Dictionary

About the event

NZLO is a linguistics competition for students who enjoy languages, puzzles, logic and problem-solving.

In the competition, students are given unfamiliar language data and asked to find patterns, analyse structures and explain their reasoning.

All necessary information is provided in the questions. Students do not need to have studied linguistics or know multiple languages.

NZLO aims to support students with strong analytical thinking, language awareness and problem-solving ability.

NZLO is organised as a non-profit educational initiative in Aotearoa New Zealand.

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Why Join NZLO?

  • A Fair Starting Point

Students do not need to speak multiple languages or study linguistics before joining. NZLO problems are self-contained and based on reasoning.

  • Language Meets Logic

NZLO connects language, logic, pattern recognition and problem-solving. It is suitable for students interested in languages, mathematics, computer science, debating, writing or analytical challenges.

  • Academic Enrichment

NZLO helps students develop clear thinking, structured reasoning and confidence in solving unfamiliar problems.

  • A National Learning Pathway

Top-performing students may be invited to the National Round, Training Pool and further selection opportunities.

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Registration

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Further information will be sent to students after registration.

Register HERE

Preparation

How to Prepare

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NZLO problems do not require memorised knowledge.

Students are encouraged to practise:

  • observing patterns

  • comparing examples

  • identifying rules

  • explaining reasoning clearly

  • solving unfamiliar language puzzles

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Preparation materials will be added to this page soon.

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FAQs

​​Do I need to know many languages?

No. All necessary information is provided in the questions.

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Do I need to study linguistics before joining?

No. Prior knowledge of linguistics is not required.

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Who can participate?

NZ Year 11–13 students in New Zealand.

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Is the competition in English?

Yes. NZLO is administered in English.

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What happens after the National Round?

Top-performing students may be invited to further training and selection stages.

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