Onehunga High School's Xavier White has cemented his status as New Zealand’s top U16 orienteer after a stellar performance at the 2025 New Zealand National Orienteering Championships, held over Easter Weekend in Christchurch.

The Championships, New Zealand’s premier orienteering event, brought together competitors from all regions. The Sprint event took runners through Christchurch's CBD, where Xavier captured a silver medal with a strong second-place finish. He excelled in the technical dunes of Waikuku Beach during the Middle Distance, taking gold. In the demanding, steep farmland and forest terrain of Mt Cass for the Long Distance, Xavier again dominated, securing another gold. Finally, he anchored his relay team to victory through the tricky pine forests of Woodend, clinching a third gold medal.

These outstanding results earned Xavier the title of National Champion for the U16 Men’s category, confirming his place as one of the brightest young talents in New Zealand orienteering. With his speed, technical skill, and determination, Xavier’s future in the sport looks incredibly promising.

A fantastic effort Xavier- Congratulations!