Could you build a bridge out of popsicle sticks strong enough to hold 20kg? That’s just one of the challenges our junior Māori and Pasifika students tackled during a recent visit to the University of Auckland!
Taking part in the SPIES (South Pacific Indigenous Engineering Students) outreach programme, our girls joined students from De La Salle College, Westlake Boys High School and Onehunga High School for a day of hands-on engineering, creative thinking and, by all accounts, plenty of good food!
From designing solutions to environmental disasters and creating water systems to programming Ozobots, there was plenty to keep everyone thinking. The activities also drew on aspects of Māori and Pasifika cultures, helping students connect their own experiences with real-world engineering challenges.
One of the highlights was hearing from SPIES alumni, who shared their journeys into engineering and the many different directions a career in the field can take. It was a great reminder that engineering isn’t just about numbers and calculations. It’s about finding solutions, working together and making a difference.
A special congratulations to Sofia Howey, who received the girls’ prize for her contribution throughout the day!
Our students came away with new skills, fresh ideas and plenty to think about for the future.
Thank you to SPIES and the University of Auckland for welcoming our girls and giving them such a valuable experience.
Written by Catherine Petelo and Sofia Howey
