Get Inside And Personal With A Termite

For immediate release
16 March 2009

GET INSIDE AND PERSONAL WITH A TERMITE

Ever wanted to literally walk through a termite's intestines? If so, then come along to Science in the Park on Saturday for Crown Research Institute Scion's community open day.

Scion scientist Dr Gareth Lloyd-Jones is leading the team of termite enthusiasts to construct a two metre wide by 10 metre long giant termite for Scion's open day. Visitors will be able to touch, taste, smell and see all that is going on within the termite's digestive system.

Gareth says he is very excited to be able to give people, especially children, this opportunity to get up close and personal and even inside a native New Zealand termite.

"We rely on termites to help get rid of the dead wood in forests. Our giant termite will give visitors a very vivid insight into how that process happens. While it may sound a little gross it is actually quite amazing how these 1cm long creatures survive by eating wood."

"It is a great way for people to get a better understanding of the important role different creatures play in the forest and it is these creatures that help keep the forest regenerating," he says.

To make the experience even more memorable, there will be free termite masks and termite models available for children to take home.

Science in the Park is a free open day for members of the public to learn more about modern science and about how Crown Research Institute Scion's 300 scientists spend their day.

Visitors will have from between 9-3 to experience the interactive displays and activities including how to pimp your ride with wood, identifying mystery insects and uncovering the energy outputs of various fuel types.

There will also be a variety of other wood related activities on show including two lumberjack shows, wood carving, a display from Te Amorangi Museum and an appearance from Caterpillar machinery.

Science in the Park is free to all members of the public and includes displays, demonstrations, science experiments, tours and giveaways. The open day is located at the Crown Research Institute Scion, 49 Sala St, Rotorua.

Science in the Park is proudly supported by Rotorua's More FM.

Details:

What:
Science in the Park - Scion's Open Day
Interactive displays, science experiments, Lumberjack show
Food and drink available for purchase

Where:
Scion
49 Sala Street, Rotorua

When:
Saturday March 21
9am-3pm

ENDS

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