THE New Zealand High Commission and the Fiji Association in Auckland (Inc) are once again organising a secondary schools essay competition for 2013.
This is the fifth year that the competition is being held, allowing secondary school students across Fiji to showcase their writing skills.
Last year's competition attracted 328 entries from 72 schools.
A statement from the NZ High Commission said this year the students were invited to write on either 'any aspect of Sir Edmund Hillary's life and contributions, his influences and legacy' or 'educational links between New Zealand and Fiji'.
The statement said 2013 marks the 60th anniversary of Sir Edmund's ascent of Mount Everest.
Sir Edmund had linkages with Fiji, including his air force service here during the World War II when he attempted but was unable to climb Joske's Thumb.
This year is also the 30th anniversary of Sir Edmund's return to Fiji and his successful scaling of Joske's Thumb.
The judges of the competition are Dr Satendra Singh and Lady Hillary, the wife of the late Sir Edmund.
Fifteen winners will receive cash prizes from a total pool of $6000 along with certificates, while the two overall winners will receive cash prizes of $1000 each, trophies and certificates of distinction.
Their schools will also receive a commemorative plaque while other schools will receive a certificate of appreciation.
Essays must be submitted through the school which the entrant attends before April 26.