Google invites Kiwi kids to doodle vision of NZ

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Google’s doodle for the anniversary of the first ascent of Mount Everest, May 29 2008

Google invites Kiwi kids to doodle their vision of New Zealand

Auckland, 30 July 2009 – Google today announced the launch of the first ever ‘Doodle 4 Google’ initiative for New Zealand schools, proudly supported by Te Papa. http://www.google.co.nz/doodle4google/

Year 1 - 10 students across the country have been challenged to design a Google ‘doodle’ inspired by the theme “My New Zealand”, creating their vision of their country using the Google logo.

The winning student will have their doodle appear on the Google New Zealand homepage for millions to see, win $10,000 of technology equipment for his or her school, and all 20 finalists will be flown to a gala national event, to be held at Te Papa Tongarewa, The Museum of New Zealand, in November.

Jason Chuck, head of marketing for Google Australia and New Zealand, says, “Our logo lets us reflect the ever-changing world around us, and celebrate special people, events and dates. We can't wait to see the special visions of New Zealand created by young Kiwis.”

The customisation of the Google logo first took place in 1999, and the Google doodle team has since celebrated events, anniversaries and holidays worldwide with doodles that incorporate the Google logo –including ANZAC Day and the anniversary of Sir Edmund Hillary's historical ascent of Mt Everest.

Charlotte Huddleston, curator visual art at Te Papa, and Google New York’s director of engineering Craig Nevill-Manning are among the judges who will adjudicate the New Zealand entries this year. From a long list of 100 entries, the judges will select 20 finalists across four year group brackets. The 20 finalists will have their doodles displayed at Te Papa.

Public voting will then identify four national winners, and Google’s Dennis Hwang, the company’s original Doodler, will pick the overall winner. Entries will be judged on the basis of artistic merit, creativity, how well their idea is communicated, and the supporting statement which explains the student’s vision of New Zealand.

Michelle Hippolite, Acting CEO and Kaihautu of Te Papa says, “We’re delighted to be partnering with Google for this initiative, and look forward to seeing a wide range of inspirational doodles that reflect the colour and diversity of our country.”

Schools across New Zealand have been sent information packs on the initiative, including lesson plans. For more competition details, photos, past doodles, and the registration page, visit: www.google.conz/doodle4google.

ENDS

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