NIWA Auckland Science and Technology Fair

NIWA Auckland Science and Technology Fair
12 September 2011

Hundreds of budding scientists from Auckland will display projects covering all areas of science and technology this week. The NIWA Auckland Science and Technology Fair, sponsored by NIWA will be held, 16 – 17 September.

“NIWA hopes that many of the students with projects at these fairs throughout the country will take up careers in science,” says NIWA’s Education Coordinator Dr Julie Hall. “These students will go onto help drive New Zealand’s economy, in the future.”

Twenty-two schools in the Auckland area have entered projects. The Fair, is open to all intermediate and secondary schools in the Auckland City Region. Over 180 projects have been entered so far.

Two students from Epsom Girls Grammar entering a project in the Planet Earth and Beyond Category were inspired by the recent Christchurch Earthquakes whereas two students from Auckland Normal Intermediate School have produced a water filter to be made and used when in the outdoors.

Two King’s School student’s have investigated how different materials between computers can change the speed it takes to send Bluetooth messages.

The prize giving is to be held at King’s School Hall on Wednesday 21st September.

This year’s judging team consists of many teachers and scientists, but also sees a good number of PhD students who are really keen to help with judging. They also are looking forward to talking about their own scientific experiences with the young budding scientists. Prizes will be awarded for first, second, and third in all categories.

Dr Julie Hall says, “NIWA is proud to sponsor this event as part of our commitment to fostering scientific excellence and knowledge among young people. 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 that can be applied in all walks of life.”

Students are competing for at least $ 8000 in prizes, donated by a range of businesses and science organisations. Also being awarded are Special Prizes that include books, entry passes, and a chance to work with scientists as well as monetary rewards.

NIWA is New Zealand’s leading provider of scientific research and consultancy services. Providing major sponsorship for many of the science fairs throughout New Zealand is part of NIWA’s long-term commitment to enhancing science and technology for young New Zealanders.

NIWA is also a major sponsor of the Wellington, Bay of Plenty, and Waikato Science and Technology Fairs.

Prize giving will be held:
Wednesday 21 September at 7.00pm
King’s School Hall
258 Remuera Rd
Auckland

ENDS

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