Marlborough students put their innovation and co-ordination to the test at the Ministry of Inspiration’s regional Aquabots competition last week.
Seventeen teams across primary, intermediate and secondary levels showcased their underwater robots at Marlborough Lines pool, navigating an obstacle course and carrying out challenges with bots built from materials including PVC pipes and pool noodles.
Students were responsible for building their bots, including motorisation and electronic controls, developing practical trade and engineering skills along the way.
This year’s theme was ‘Harmful Algal Blooms’, inspired by the effects of blooms on water quality and marine life in Marlborough waters.
Ministry of Inspiration co-founder and Aquabots judge Amy Cornelisen says the competition is designed to help students “learn not only about the science, but how that is affecting their own backyard too.”
STEAMS school’s Tiny Turtles took first place in the primary category with their turtle-inspired bot, impressing judges with their speed, agility and understanding of aquatic science and engineering.
They will head to the national Aquabots competition in Marlborough at the end of November, alongside intermediate winners Neon Tetra from Bohally and college winners Ship Got Real from Marlborough Boys’ College. Runners-up in each category also secured places at nationals.
Team member Daisy Blackwell says she’s “really proud and excited” to progress, while teammate Finley Martella admits he’s “very nervous.”
Amy says she’s impressed by the improving standard and growing engagement in STEM subjects.
“We’re really impressed this year, the standard keeps going up and up. And it’s great to see new schools winning too. They’re not getting beaten out by the schools who have been doing it for years.”
At nationals, Marlborough teams will compete against others from around the country for the chance to represent New Zealand at international SeaPerch or MATE competitions in the United States.
