Hundreds of budding scientists from the Waikato will display projects covering all areas of science and technology in Hamilton next week.
The 31st Waikato Science and Technology Fair, sponsored by the National Institute of Water & Atmospheric Research (NIWA), will be held at Hamilton Gardens Pavilion from 19 - 21 August.
"NIWA is proud to sponsor this event as part of our commitment to fostering scientific excellence and knowledge among young people," says NIWA's Education Coordinator, Dr Julie Hall. "The Science and Technology Fairs are a great way to get school students to think about and engage with science. As well as gaining knowledge of science and the scientific process, they develop critical thinking skills."
About 300 exhibits are expected from Year 7 - 13 students, from about 28 schools throughout the area. On 19 August, the judges will select the best projects in each of the age classes and interview all the students about their exhibits. The judges will be looking for originality in projects, or for an original approach to a problem.
Over $5,000 worth of prizes are being donated by a range of science and business organisations. The main winner will receive $500, and may be nominated for a place at Genesis Energy's Realise the Dream, a week-long road trip of events for young scientists and innovators to be held in December in Wellington.
"NIWA hopes that many of the students exhibiting at these fairs will take up careers in science, which are vital to sustaining New Zealand's environment and economy," says Dr Hall.
NIWA is a major sponsor of the Auckland, Bay of Plenty, Waikato, and Wellington Science and Technology Fairs, as well as the NIWA Discovery Room, an interactive marine display at Kelly Tarltons.
Science and Technology Fairs are well established, successful and high - profile events, which take place annually throughout New Zealand. Science and Technology Fairs have been operating in New Zealand for over 30 years.
Public Viewing (free entry)
Venue: Hamilton Gardens Pavilion, Cobham Drive, Hamilton East
Public Viewing times: Friday 9am - 10pm Saturday 9am - 2pm
Prize Giving
Friday 21 August, 7pm
University of Waikato, Pricewaterhouse Coopers Lecture Theatre, Management Building, off Hillcrest Road.
Media please note: To obtain advance notice of winners on Friday for an interview and photograph, contact Rosalie McGowan.