BOP Science Fair to showcase young science talent
Over $7,000 worth of prizes will be awarded to school students in the BOP region as part of the 31st annual BOP Regional Science & Technology Fair, sponsored by NIWA.
Hundreds of young scientists are to showcase their talent in the fair, to be held at the Rotorua Convention Centre on the 30th and 31st August.
201 exhibits are expected from Year 7 to Year 13 students, from over 20 schools throughout the BOP region, covering all areas of science and technology.
On judging day, 30th August, a team of around 50 judges will interview all the students and select the best projects in each of the age classes.
Prizes are being donated by a range of businesses and science organisations, including the Rotorua Energy Charitable Trust, Environment BOP, and the Department of Conservation. The overall winner will receive $600 and will also be nominated for a place at Genesis Energy’s Realise the Dream. This is a weeklong festival of events for young scientists, technologists and others, to be held in December. Some students will also be eligible for the "Hands on Science" week, held at Otago University in January 2008.
‘Science & Technology Fairs provide a great chance for students to actively participate in science projects. The enthusiasm is clear to see and the fairs give an opportunity for students to gain recognition for excellence and innovation.
Naturally, NIWA hopes that many of the students exhibiting at this year’s fair will take up careers in science. Young scientists and technologists will be vital to maintaining New Zealand’s prosperity and our remarkable environment in future,’ says NIWA’s Education Co-ordinator, Dr Julie Hall.
NIWA is also a major sponsor of the Auckland, Waikato, Wellington, and Nelson Science & Technology Fairs, as well as the NIWA Discovery Room, an interactive marine discovery centre at Kelly Tarlton’s Underwater World in Auckland.
The Fair is open for public viewing at the Rotorua Convention Centre between 1.00 p.m. and 6.00 p.m. on Thursday 30th August and 9.00 am to 1.00 pm on Friday 31st August. Prizegiving is on Friday 31st August at 1.00 p.m. in the Concert Chamber at the Convention Centre.
