This annual engineering challenge usually takes place in March, however due to lockdown the competition was postponed until August.

Over a period of two and a half hours teams of four students were confronted with engineering problems involving mechanics, structures, mathematics, and electronics. Their solutions were marked and the three teams with the most points progressed to the next round.

Katikati College was well represented with six teams. The remaining five teams were from Matahui School and Waihi College. Those teams that worked well together, could think under pressure and plan ahead, fared well. The top two teams were only separated by 20 points at the end of the competition. 

Katikati College placed first and second. First place was the Krainyaks - Miles Jonson, Bradley Scott and Tim Wiebes. Second place went to Almost Einsteins - Hannah Gourlay, Kara McCormick, Jacob Doidge and Leo Willacy. Both teams progress to the semi finals round to be held in October.

Well done to all the students involved. All are looking forward to competing again in 2021. 

I would like to thank the parents for their support. Earlier this year Jan McCormick and Leonie Gourlay spearheaded a fundraiser to buy two E Pro 8 Kits for the school. Prizes were donated by local businesses for the raffle while other businesses contributed funds to cover the purchase cost. We will now be able to run sessions at school and have students well prepared for the event. Thanks to Switch Electrical Services Ltd, PGG Wrightson, P & R Scott, Birchwood Packhouse Ltd, Tanner Spraying Ltd and Zippy Laser Designs, as well as all those in the community that purchased raffle tickets. Thanks also to the event sponsor OceanaGold.