Charles and Ella Elgar Bursaries

For students who have been discharged following service in the New Zealand Defence Forces or be the children or grandchildren of such discharged service men and women.

Scholarship overview

Status: Open

Key facts

Value: $1,600
Duration: One year's duration
Number available: Three awards
Type of study: Full-time, Part-time, Undergraduate, Postgraduate, Masters

Application dates

Applications open: 20 November 2025
Closing date: 1 February 2026

Restrictions

Eligibility restrictions: High achievement. Service men or women.

These bursaries are provided from a Trust Fund established by the Will of the late Ella Grace Elgar who, with her husband Charles, farmed at "Fernside" near Featherston in the Wairarapa.

Who we're looking for

We're looking for students who have been discharged following service in the New Zealand Defence Forces or students who are the children or grandchildren of such discharged service men and women.

What you'll be studying

This is an undergraduate and postgraduate bursary. Preference will be given to students who are studying agriculture or a related science.

Application checklist

Include the following with your application:

  • evidence of your service discharge or that of your parent’s discharge. If you are the child of a discharged serviceman you will also need to attach evidence of your relationship, eg. Birth certificate.
  • a personal statement on why you wish to apply for this bursary and why you feel you are a suitable candidate, including your service to others.
  • an academic reference (optional)

Selection considerations

When choosing our recipients we will consider your service history, or your parents/grandparents service history. We will also consider your area of study and academic merit and all-round achievement and service to others.