2023_scifest_print_programme_DIGITAL V2
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30 June – 9 July 2023 | DUNEDIN
SCIFEST.ORG.nZ
WELCOME
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Major Partners
Supporting Funders
Sponsors
Event Partners
Tēnā koutou,
Welcome to Ōtepoti Dunedin,
proud host of the New Zealand
International Science Festival.
Dunedin is a city of education, a city
of science and a city of innovation.
This festival brings those elements
together in a week of hands-on
activities, talks and activities for all
ages and interests.
This year is the festival’s 25th
anniversary. With over 90 events
at 50 venues across the city, and
all 11 National Science Challenges
represented along the way, it’s
shaping up as the best festival yet!
Science is important because it
influences nearly all aspects of
our everyday lives – food, energy,
climate, medicine, transport
and more.
We’re 25 years old!
Some would say that’s when you
really become an adult, looking at
your future with a certain amount
of experience behind you.
We hope you enjoy browsing the
programme, both here and online.
We hope you will find topics that
intrigue you, no matter your age or
interests. There are workshops and
talks, tours and shows and so much
more. We are particularly proud to
present a Matariki-themed science
show Matariki Ki Tua O Kā Whetū:
Matariki Of Endless Possibilities
which weaves the story of Matariki
and its mātauranga into an
exciting tale.
We have some wonderful
international guests including
ecological economist Prof Tim
Jackson (UK) and are delighted to
offer tours of several of Dunedin’s
incredible local businesses
where you can explore some of
the fascinating technology and
creativity that goes on right here
in our City of Science. We are also
jazzed about our Speaker Series
as it will be an opportunity to
hear about the work being done
in relation to all 11 of our National
Science Challenges.
Director’s top 10
Matariki Ki Tua o Kā WhetŪ | Pg 4
Festival Hub | Pg 6-9
Science Shows | Pg 16
National Science Challenges talks| Pg 28-29
Lights, Camera, Science! | Pg 5
Science Expo | Pg 13
Tim Jackson | Pg 25
Sci Fight | Pg 12
Murder, Mystery and Mixology | Pg 26
Women in Science Brunch | Pg 26
book your tickets now at
scifest.org.nz
How TO USE THIS GUIDE
All ages
kids (4-8)
tweens (9-12)
teens (13-17)
adults (18+)
KEY
AGE Recommendation
booking required
Price listing (where applicable)
full price/concession
Science also helps to improve
human life at every level – from
individual health and comfort to
global issues.
So be sure to confer with
friends and whānau, make a plan,
participate in some of the many
events on offer, and learn more
about the world around you!
I hope to see you there.
Kā mihi nui,
Jules Radich
Mayor of Dunedin
The Festival is supported by an
incredible group of volunteers who
make sure our attendees are well
looked after and the events run
smoothly, and we have so many
partners, funders and sponsors
who help us bring these amazing
speakers and experiences to you.
In particular, we’d like to thank our
major funders The Dunedin City
Council, the Otago Community
Trust, and the University of Otago.
We are endlessly grateful to all
the people and organisations that
believe in our kaupapa and are as
excited as we are about science.
In 1998, the first Festival Director
wrote: “The great thing about
running the first International
Science Festival is that it infers
there will be a second.” Now, we
like to think that the idea of a 25th
festival suggests that there will be a
50th. The big question is – What will
science have in store for us then?
Bridget Irving, President
Jerome Cousins, Festival Director
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Matariki Ki Tua o Kā Whetū:
Matariki of Endless Possibilities
Sat 1 July, Sun 2 July • University of Otago Teachers College Auditorium • 2pm • 60min • $15 |$10
In the hours before the
Matariki star cluster
rises, a scientist and his
family gather in their
garden to celebrate the
Māori New Year.
While they wait for the sun to rise, they prepare a hāngī, share stories of
their tīpuna, and explore the science of the world around them. How will
the stars bring this whānau closer together?
Matariki Ki Tua o Kā Whetū is a new science show written by
Isaac Martyn (2022 Peter Harcourt New Playwright of the Year) and
directed by Sahara Pohatu-Trow, with the support of the University of
Otago Physics outreach team.
Produced with support from the Creative Communities Scheme from
Creative New Zealand.
25 years of science
fri 30 june – Sun 9 july • weekdays, 9am – 6pm
weekends, 9am – 5pm • Meridian Mall• free • drop in
Lights. . . Camera. . .
SCIENCE! Get ready
for a night to delight
at the Regent!
Have an unforgettable
evening on the red carpet in
celebration of the phenomenal
science and natural history
films produced by Master’s
students of the University
of Otago’s Department of
Science Communication, the
world’s leading postgraduate
programme in science
storytelling. The line-up
includes five fantastic films
with introductions by
the filmmakers.
To celebrate, we’re looking back
at some of the most amazing
scientific advancements and
research projects in Aotearoa
New Zealand over the last
past 25 years.
The selection of research
highlighted in this exhibition
was curated by the Prime
Minister’s Chief Science
Advisor Dame Juliet Gerrard,
and features everything
from important advances in
agriculture to cutting-edge
technology, plus a glimpse of
what might be on the cards
for the next 25 years
and beyond!
This year, the New Zealand
International Science Festival
turns 25!
Lights, Camera, Science!
Sci Comm Student Film Premiere
fri 30 june • Regent Theatre • 7pm • 150min • $20|$15
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Magic in the Air!
Imagination Playground
Aotearoa New Zealand
Geological Map Carpet
Virtual Driving Practice!
MON 3 TO SUN 9 JULY • 9.45am • 40min • free
MON 3 TO SUN 9 JULY • 10am – 3PM • free • DROP IN
MON 3 TO SUN 9 JULY • 10am – 3PM • free • DROP IN
MON 3 TO SUN 9 JULY • 10am – 3PM • free • DROP IN
CoDriVR is a locally developed virtual reality programme
to help with gaining a license and important road safety
skills. Experience the latest developments from the team!
The University Book Shop is excited to be running their
magical Story Time sessions. Hear their wonderful Story Teller
share tales of dastardly deeds and sumptuous stories, and
finish the session by indulging your creativity in a craft activity!
With the Imagination Playground engineering blocks, kids
build a new world every day. They make objects like animals,
rocket ships, and robots. They make imaginary places like
houses, factories, and cities. They make new dramatic
scenarios, settings, and games to play. Most importantly,
they make the rules.
Because Imagination Playground is child-directed and open-
ended, it encourages self-expression through deep, joyful
play. Come and enjoy this creative engineering adventure.
Admire GNS Science’s one-of-a-kind New Zealand geological
map carpet in the Festival Hub. Trace the unique colours of
rock formations from Cape Reinga to Bluff. Walk along the
Alpine Fault. See New Zealand’s mountains and plains through
a geologist’s eyes. This unique carpet display is a must for map
lovers – you’ll never see anything like it.
Check out the Festival Hub at 26 Princes St! Open 10am – 3pm from Mon 3 July
through to Sun 9 July various for you to drop in, chat to our Festival staff,
and participate in the events and activities happening throughout the week.
Exhibition for Our Ocean
Workshop Series
How Do You Measure Up?
MON 3 TO SUN 9 JULY • 10am – 3PM • free • DROP IN
MON 3 JULY • 10am – 1PM • free • DROP IN
See the transformation of marine climate data into art,
from the Our Ocean workshop series run by the NZ Marine
Studies Centre. These visual stories bring marine scientific
data to life, enhancing the visibility of our changing ocean and
the threat the changes pose to local marine life.
Measure your own physiological signals with interactive
devices from ADInstruments and MR EMG and compare your
signals to professional athletes!
Test your own physiological signals in real time (including grip
force and muscle activity) and compete against each other
with these measurements. Check out how you measure up
compared to skilled athletes
Mon 3 JULY • 10am – 3PM • free • DROP IN
Mon 3 JULY to Sun 9 July • 10am – 3PM • free • DROP IN
Town Belt Kaitiaki is excited to be holding a wild bird-themed
event with the opportunity to create bird feeders as well as lots
of interesting information about plants that birds are naturally
attracted to and that are beneficial. There are also plenty of
other fun activities and the opportunity to find out more about
what the Student Leadership Team has been working on.
Every living thing has a genome from the tiniest virus to the
largest animal on earth. We humans all have a unique genome
– a set of instructions that make us who we are.
But what exactly is a genome and why has the field of genomics
become increasingly important within our everyday lives?
Told in picture panels, this exhibition seeks to answer some of
these questions in four intriguing stories: Genome 101, A Brief
History, Genomics in Aotearoa, and Covid-19, 2020.
Feed the Birds
Genome – Science of Life
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Map Chat
Wed 5, fri 7, sun 9 JULY • 1pm • 15min • free • DROP IN
The geological map of New Zealand explained. Geologists
from GNS Science will relate short stories about the
special geological map carpet on display in the Science
Festival hub. What do the colours mean, who created the
map, why it was made? There will be time for questions
and comments afterwards.
Kiwi Kai
WED 5, THU 6, FRI 7 JULY • 10am – 3pm • free • DROP IN
Kiwi, your guide, invites you on a virtual farm
adventure in Aotearoa New Zealand.
To succeed, you have to balance manaakihia te
taiao (care for nature), whakatipua he kai hauora
(grow healthy food), and manaaki tāngata (care for
community) without overspending. Are you game?
Micro-Investigators
TUE 4 JULY • 10am – 3PM • free • DROP IN
Visit the Micro-Investigators programme stall for a hands-
on demonstration of their straightforward, inexpensive, and
accessible methodology for sampling rivers and isolating
microplastics in the lab. The goal is to present a simple and
standardised approach that can be easily applied by primary
school, high school and tertiary students, empowering
communities through environmental education, Māori
Indigenous values and wisdom, and raising awareness of
waterways’ microplastics pollution.
HEART HUB
TUE 4 JULY • 10am – 3PM • free • DROP IN
Heart researchers from far and wide across Aotearoa
have joined forces and are taking over the Festival Hub!
The HEART HUB crew has an epic array of activities to drop
in and enjoy, including a microscope station, stethoscopes,
blood pressure cuffs, plastinated heart models, and a
quiet activities zone. There will be interactives for healthy
volunteers and space for young people to play and explore
the workings of the heart.
Ask Dr Rock
Wed 5, fri 7, sun 9 JULY • 1.15pm • 45min • free • DROP IN
Bring your favourite rocks, minerals, fossils and pebbles
for the Geoscience Society of New Zealand’s Dr Rock to
identify. Challenge Dr Rock with something puzzling. What’s
this rock? Where’s it from? How did it form? Why is it this
colour? Could it be gold? Is it a meteorite?
Come and find out something about the story of the rocks
around Dunedin, New Zealand, and Zealandia.
Plant Me Instead!
Thu 6, fri 7 july • 10am – 3PM • free • DROP IN
Many of the weedy species invading and damaging Otago’s
natural areas are ornamental plants that have ‘jumped
the fence’ from gardens and gone wild. Luckily, everyone
can help in the fight against invasive weeds by learning to
recognise, control and replace them with natives.
Visit the Otago Regional Council and Dunedin City Council
for some useful advice and ideas on what you can do in
your own backyard to help protect Otago’s environment.
There may be an awesome alternative plant for you to take
home too!
Science for Our Land
and Future
SAT 8, SUN 9 JULY • 10am – 3PM • free • DROP IN
Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research will have a range of
displays and activities to highlight the research undertaken
by our scientists.
Have a go on the virtual reality experience, Karanga o
Tāne Mahuta, which will take you on a 2,000-year journey
through Aotearoa’s ancient flora, fauna and taonga species.
Then have a go at making your own tracking card and guess
who has left footprints behind so you can make trapping
decisions to protect our biodiversity. Now you’ve seen
everything on the land, why not try flying a mini drone over
our rural landscape to map environmental changes...
Everyday Conservation
Science
WED 5, Fri 7 july • 10am – 3pm • free • DROP IN
The Department of Conservation and Toyota New Zealand
have teamed up to create Toyota Kiwi Guardians! This
national programme is a family-friendly initiative involving
at home actions and outdoor adventures, which supports
tamariki to engage their senses and get out into nature.
See them at the Festival Hub to learn about everyday
conservation science all around you, and earn a Toyota
Kiwi Guardians medal!
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Trouble In Paradise
sat 8 july to sun 8 oct • 10am – 5pm • 1877 gallery • FRee • drop in
In the lead-up to the COP26 climate change summit, the
UK Government invited people from across the Pacific to
document the everyday impacts of climate change in their
region. These photographs are the winning entries of the UK’s
Pacific Climate Photography Competition, with submissions
under the categories of Marine, Land, People, Youth (under 21)
and Junior (under 13).
With support from British Council
New Zealand and the Pacific and
British High Commission.
Image credit: Maxim Va’a, Samoa
Magic Heritage Bus Tours
Gin & The Collection
Out of this World
Makerspace
THU 3, wed 5, fri 7 JULY • CHECK WEBSITE for details
wed 5 JULY • 5.30pm • Meet in Museum Foyer • $45 • R18
Sat 1 to wed 12 july • ATRIUM LEVEL 1 • FRee • DROP IN
Embark on an adventure on a Dunedin-famous Magic
Heritage bus! Join Science Communicators from Tūhura
Otago Museum on a field trip and discover creatures,
history, and more while you learn about the wonder of
science along the way.
More info at otagomuseum.nz
Want a night out that is a little different from the usual
restaurant or bar? Come along, taste award-winning
boutique gins and get a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse of
Tūhura Otago Museum’s rarely seen basement collection.
In celebration of the NZ International Science Festival
2023, this evening will feature collections that visiting
researchers have travelled across the world to see.
Tūhura Otago Museum’s Makerspace is famous for its
amazing crafts, and this time we’re celebrating space
with the Out-of-This World Makerspace! These self-
guided, family-friendly activities are a great way to
spend an hour or more and are suitable for all ages.
WHAT’S ON AT
TūHURA OTAGO MUSUEM
Tūhura Science Show
visit Tūhura Science Centre
Planetarium Shows
fri 30 june to sun 9 july • 2pm • FRee
every day • Tūhura Science Centre • from $13
every day • Perpetual Guardian Planetarium • from $9
419 Great King St, Dunedin | Ph 03 474 7474
More events, tickets and info at otagomuseum.nz
Join us as we explore the secrets of science that make
our world go round. Our amazing science show is designed
to inspire, educate, and entertain kids of all ages, so get
ready for an incredible adventure of discovery.
We’ve got a fantastic lineup of experiments,
demonstrations, and interactive activities that will have
your kids buzzing with excitement. Our science show is
packed with surprises at every turn!
First Flight Butterfly Release
Every day at 11am we take the brand-new butterflies from
the hatching space and release them into the forest where
you can watch them flutter together.
Terrapin Tucker Time
Come and join us while we give our terrapins their dinner,
and learn all about their habits behaviour, and diets.
Tarantula Tales
Perfect for spider fans and arachnophobes alike, we’re sure
that you’ll all fall in love with these fascinating spiders. Come
and join us in the Tropical Forest – we promise they won’t bite!
Looking for an out-of-this-world experience? Look no further
than the Tūhura Otago Museum Planetarium! Our Night Sky
Live and Spacetronauts shows are the perfect way to explore
the wonders of space and astronomy, with something for
everyone. Check out otagomuseum.nz for the show times.
gallery trails
every day • collect from info Desk • FRee • DROP IN
Tūhura Otago Museum gallery trails are a perfect day
out during long school holidays. Take your favourite small
person on a hunt through the Museum and follow the
clues to collect your reward!
Follow the Tūhura Trivia Hunt trail to learn more about the
interactives in our Science Centre, or the Tropical Forest
Trivia hunt to learn more about the animals and plants
that live there.
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Fri 7, sat 8 July • 6.30pm, 8pm • 90min
TŪHURA Otago Museum – Beautiful Science Gallery • $45 • R18
fri 30 june to sun 9 july • 10am – 5pm
TŪHURA Otago Museum – hutton theatre • free
On the Origin of Faeces
Wine & Sound with
Dr Jo Burzynska
Micro-Folie Digital Museum
Sci Fight Science Comedy
Debate: We Should Fear AI
TUE 4, wed 5, thu 6, fri 7 JULY • 6.30pm • 60min
TŪHURA Otago Museum – Barclay Theatre • $30|$25 • M15+
SAT 1 JULY • 7.30pm • 90min
TŪHURA Otago Museum – Hutton Theatre • $30|$25 • M15+
On the Origin of Faeces is a scientific and comedic
investigation into the excellent world of excrement and
gut bacteria. How do astronauts poo in space? Did ancient
cultures worship poo? What lurks in a gut microbiome?
The answer lies within ourselves.
This is a s%^t show. Join science comedian Alanta Colley
for a festival of effluvia, exploring how gut bacteria makes
us who we are, and our gut feelings about poo. So grab a
stool and join us for a diar-really good time.
Experience wine like you never have before - with your ears!
Let the combination of wine & sound lead you to unexpected
places in this unique wine-tasting experience. Dr Jo Burzynska
is New Zealand-based wine writer, sound artist/composer
and researcher. Her work in these areas has increasingly
converged in projects that combine sound and flavour. This
includes a recent PhD investigating the influence of sound on
the perception of wine, and the production of multisensory
art and immersive experiences, such the establishment of the
world’s first wine and sound bar.
The Micro-folie Digital Museum is a collaboration between the
French Ministry of Culture and La Villette and is a collection
of thousands of pieces from famous museums around Europe
and the world.
Here for the first time in New Zealand, experience incredible
artwork and artefacts from these collections without
having to travel to each of the museums that house them!
The innovative software interfaces with tablets to allow an
individual experience in a shared space. This event has been
made possible with support from the French Embassy. Check
festival website for collection information.
Sci Fight Science Comedy Debate brings together comedians
and scientists to debate serious issues in a ridiculous way.
Proceedings are loosely held together by your definitely
qualified host, Alanta Colley [citation needed]. Sci Fight has
been described as a nerdy, silly, and only occasionally litigious
romp into what it even means to be alive.
University of Otago Business School, corner of Clyde Street and Union Street East
Saturday 1 July, 10am—4pm | Sunday 2 July, 10am—2pm | Free entry
Science Expo
Anatomy
Discover how we lived in the past, how this infuences who
we are today, and where looking to the future might shape
who we become. Visit each of our moments in time and
complete your time-traveller’s anatomy passport. Dig for
bones, paint your insides on a t-shirt, learn about advanced
medical imaging and more!
Archaeology
Archaeology is the study of the human past, using material
culture remains. Discover how we use artefacts and sites to
learn about the past, and gather lessons for our future. We’ll
ask the questions: What does it mean to be human? How do
we afect the world and the environment around us? How
has technology changed over time? What new sciences are
we using to learn about our human ancestors?
Botany
Plant biology is crucial to the health of the planet. Through
photosynthesis, plants have changed the Earth’s atmosphere,
transforming the planet and enabling life as we know it to
evolve. Plants now have numerous roles in mitigating the
efects of climate change and understanding the biology
of plants is crucial in addressing many of the challenges
involved with climate change.
Brain Health Research Centre
Join us to explore the greatest part of the body – the brain.
We’ll be running some demos of Positively Wired! Testing
your brainwaves and emotions through a headset, alongside
build-a-neuron and some cool illusions. A giant infatable
brain will also be on hand to walk through. Join us for a
special movie screening followed by a Q&A with brainiacs
(popcorn included).
Coastal People: Southern Skies
The vision of Coastal People: Southern Skies (CPSS) is
fourishing wellness (mauri ora) of coastal communities.
As a Centre for Research Excellence, our mission is to connect,
understand and restore coastal ecosystems of Aotearoa New
Zealand and the Pacifc through transformative research,
local action and unlocking potential through new pathways
to learning. Visit us at the expo to think about what mauri ora
looks like for us as individuals, families, communities and the
coastal ecosystem in which we live.
Computer Science
Get a glimpse into the future, explore the latest advances in
technology and see how we’re recreating the past.
• Meet our robot dog and fnd out how we’re teaching it to
fnd its way around.
• See how we’re creating playable replicas of Moriori
albatross bone futes, made more than 100 years ago on
Rēkohu / Chatham Island.
• Experience 3D virtual reality environments captured from
regular mobile phone cameras.
• Learn how AI is used to generate pictures.
• See how the technology we’re developing will give crowds
at live sports events enhanced experiences with
augmented reality.
Dentistry
We’ll bring a range of family-friendly hands-on activities that
explore dentistry as an art and a science, incentivizing the
public to refect on the importance of looking after their
oral health.
Food Science
Join us as we present a ‘crop to cup … and beyond’ concept.
Sample our oat milk ice cream, served in a sweet upcycled
cracker cup. ‘Step along the supply chain’ to learn about the
diferent ingredients and processes involved. We’ll emphasise
the importance of sustainability and circularity throughout
the entire supply chain, highlighting the role of agricultural
and food scientists in ensuring products are of a high quality,
safe and meeting expectations of the end consumer. We will
also bring along our smoothie bike so the kids can make a
treat!
Genetics and Biochemistry
A combination of the Genetics teaching programme and the
Department of Biochemistry, showcasing how lessons and
methods used in the past are used today, and to educate
our future.
Geography
The world around us is always changing, and this is
something that Geographers study a lot. How have
landscapes changed in the past and how will they change in
the future? Will future landscapes be able to provide enough
space for our plants and animals, and enough food for us
people?
Geology
Come see our wall of luminescent mineral rocks from the
past and experience the magic of their vibrant colours. Plus,
discover the secret world hidden in rocks with amazing UV
light technology.
HeartOtago Research Theme
HeartOtago invites you to compete against your family
and friends. See who can get the highest heart rate and
generate the most power in a 20-second cycle sprint.
For those not interested in working up a sweat, we will be
running our cold stress challenge – see if you can dip your
hands in an ice bucket for 1 minute! While doing these
tests, we will teach you about measuring heart rate and
blood pressure, and how you can keep your heart healthy.
We will also have microscopes set up with rat heart
anatomy sections.
Human Nutrition
Food provides fuel and nutrients for our bodies. In New
Zealand, the foods that we eat and our portion sizes have
changed over time. How do your portions compare to your
parents? Join us at the expo to fnd out more!
Information Science
Come see us at the Department of Information Science
booth for:
• Virtual Māori storytelling: Immerse yourself in the world of
our Māori partners.
• Climate change and sea level rise: See the potential
efects of sea level rise on the assets of the Ngāi Tahu iwi.
• Pervasive augmented reality: Experience a future where
AR goggles are as normal as sunglasses.
Marine Science
The ocean’s impact on our world is huge – and understanding
our ocean planet is essential for meeting the challenges of
our collective future. Learn about conservation, restoration
and climate change from a marine science perspective,
meet your coastal neighbours with live animal exhibits and
investigate the concerns for our future ocean. Hands-on
exhibits will highlight what makes our Southern Ocean
special and how we can step up as kaitiaki for our marine
environment.
Mathematics and Statistics
Warp your point of view by travelling near the speed of light.
See how gravitational waves bend spacetime. Fall into a
fractal. Wrap your head around some curly probabilities.
Try your hand at some tricky puzzles in our chill-out zone.
Microbiology and Immunology
Fresh foods, prepared foods and even preserved foods are
often contaminated with spoilage microorganisms, as well
as some pathogenic microorganisms that can cause disease.
Microorganisms are important spoilage agents of foods,
causing food shortages and economic loss.
Ngāi Tāhu Māori Health Research Unit
Join us on a journey through the science of medicines!
Get hands-on with nature’s medicine chest to discover and
explore rongoā rākau and where medicines come from.
Investigate how medicines are made, and how to use them
safely to protect ourselves and our planet. Get creative and
Go Viral at our D-Bug Game Design station – use modelling
clay to sculpt your very own virus-related game character and
3D scan your creation to see your character come to life.
Pharmacy
Come along and learn how medicines are created, the
diferent ways we can administer medicines to people, and
what’s in store for the future!
Psychology
Psychology is the science of behaviour, brain and cognition.
We explore the complex way humans and other animals
interact with the world and each other, with topics like:
Why do we copy what everyone else is doing? Why can’t
I concentrate after staying up all night? Why does my dog
listen to me but not to my friends? Come along to participate
in some classic psychology experiments and to fnd out more
about Psychology.
Science Communication
Have you ever wanted to learn how to animate your own
stories? Or bring your own art to life? Join the Department
of Science Communication staf and students as they inspire
you to start your own digital animation journey. At our mobile
animation station, we will show you how to make simple 2D
digital animations, as well as funky, fun, artistic, stop-motion
animations.
Surveying
Measure, analyse and visualise our world through the science
and technology of surveying and geospatial. Robotically
measure where locations are in 3D. Build a digital urban
model from millions of 3D points. Create live 3D landscapes
in sand and experiment with virtual water fowing over
your designed surface. Experience remote places through
geospatial virtual reality. Explore 3D change in digital
environments (of Dunedin, Whakaari White Island) built from
3D reality capture technology.
Zoology
What kinds of animals live in and around Dunedin? What
animals lived here in the past, and what animals might live
here in the future? Come and see what animals are around
us, and how and why scientists in the Department of Zoology
are studying them.
University of Otago
Image: Trevor Cokley
For further information and an expo map, visit:
scifest.org.nz/programme/expo
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Dunedin Public
LibrarY EVENTS
E-Waste Reconstruction
Fingerprinting Forensics
- An Oritain Mystery
Youth ROBOTICS Artplay
Computer Deconstruction
Workshop
SUN 2 JULY AND SUN 9 JULY • 1PM, 2PM, 3PM • 60min
Dunedin Public Library • free
MON 3 JULY • every 20 mins from 10am to 12pm
Dunedin Public Library • free
sat 1, sun 2, sat 8 and sun 9 july • 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm • 60min
Dunedin Public Library • free
Sat 1 July AND SAT 8 July • 11am AND 1PM • 90min
Dunedin Public Library • free
Detectives have long used human fingerprints as a form
of evidence with cracking forensic cases, but did you
know that there are also other types of fingerprinting?
Explore different ways of fingerprinting, including
chemical fingerprinting, origin fingerprinting, and other
fun real life forensic techniques. Become a forensic
investigator as we work to solve a puzzling crime.
Can a robot do your homework?
See if you can instruct a virtual robot to draw something
on a computer (or try one of our pre-made designs) and
then test to see if your design can be produced on a real
robot (Otago Polytechnic’s mini KUKA robot). You can
take your robotically drawn design home. Of course the
applications are endless – just think what other tasks a
robot could do for you...
Come to these DIY workshops to experiment in a series of
electronic and mechanical projects and make use of resources
recovered from e-waste. You will cover a range of topics and
make items that you can take home.
Strip it, rebuild it, plug it in and make it go – a computer
deconstruction workshop. If you don’t have a computer
at home, sign up at the event to get a FREE working
computer, plus peripherals (monitor, keyboard, mouse
and cables) to take home for your homework.
For ages 12-18yrs but children between 8yrs and 12yrs
may attend with an adult.
Clash of the Trash:
Organics and Landfills
Coastal Care with
Citizen Science
WED 5 JULY • 11am • 60min • Dunedin Public Library • free • drop in
TUE 4 JULY • 6pm • 60min • Dunedin Public Library • free
What sharks visit Otago Harbour? How will ocean-
warming affect marine life? How do we monitor the
health of our coastal environment? Join Rob Lewis for a
one-hour talk that gives insight into citizen science at the
NZ Marine Studies Centre and the Department of Marine
Science, University of Otago.
We all produce organic wastes, whether these are food
scraps or garden waste. Learn from the Dunedin City Council
Waste and Environmental Solutions team what happens
when they receive your organic waste. You’ll also discover
what the best options are to deal with organics and hear
about changes coming up following the adoption of the
Aotearoa New Zealand Waste Strategy 2023, for a more
sustainable Aotearoa.
Junior Heart Science
fri 7 JULY • 1pm • 60min • Mosgiel Library • free
fri 7 JULY • 4pm • 60min • Dunedin Public Library • free
Through a hands-on interactive session, learn all about
hearts and answer questions such as: How does the heart
work? What makes the heart beat? Is a mouse heart the
same as a whale heart? Can we measure what happens
when you exercise? These one-hour workshops are suitable
for children aged 6-10 years.
Fight Like a Physicist
mon 3 to wed 5 july • 2pm • 60min • Dunedin Public Library • free
An interactive workshop where you will learn the basics
of the martial arts karate. The underlying physics of
movements, techniques and safety gear will be discussed
and practised. No experience necessary, come with an
open mind, and be prepared to move! All ages welcome.
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The Messy Fun Science
with Amadeo Show!
Mysterious Chemistry
The Physics of Hot
and Cold
fri 7 JULY • 3pm • 60min • VENUE TBC – CHECK WEBSITE • free
sun 9 JULY • 11am, 2pm • 60min
University of Otago – Castle 1 Lecture Theatre • free
sat 8 JULY • 11am, 2pm • 60min
University of Otago – St Davids Lecture Theatre • free
Experience messy, mucky, sticky, slimy science in this
spectacular science show featuring Fun Science with
Amadeo. There will be gross goop, squishy sludge, and
a big big mess for the NZISF!
A series of activities where students from the University
of Otago Chemistry Department demonstrate some of
their favourite experiments and make a mess with liquid
nitrogen, hydrogen and helium with guaranteed bangs
and smoke, plus the mysterious properties of a jelly baby.
Then, with the help of the audience, they will explain the
activity. There will also be opportunities for audience
volunteers to take part and get up close and personal
with the chemistry.
Do you like winter and the cold? How cold can you
withstand? Can we hold a boiling liquid in our bare
hands? The Department of Physics invites you for an
experimental investigation of our everyday phenomena.
We plan a small journey through the realms of hot and
cold and challenge our everyday understanding of force,
pressure, sound, temperature, and more. Come along
and see some experiments you can recreate at home
and some that you definitely should not!
watch!
Spontaneous Reactions
sat 1 july • 2pm • 45min • New Athenaeum Theatre • $20|$15
Improsaurus is bringing you an improvised show about
science (sort of)! Using audience suggestions, the team
of ‘scientists’ will attempt to solve some of the world’s
greatest mysteries (maybe). A fun way for teens to learn
about the scientific method, science communication,
and the importance of improvisation!
Fun Science with Amadeo
at the Observatory!
wed 5 july | 12pm – 2pm, thu 6 july | 7pm – 9pm
Beverly Begg Observatory • $5
Enjoy some amazing astronomy demonstrations and activities
at the Beverley Begg Observatory. We’ll be making a comet,
sending marshmallows to the vacuum of space and much more!
There are two events, one during the day and one at night.
watch!
book your tickets now at
scifest.org.nz
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WD Trotter Anatomy
Museum: Guided Tours
SAT 1 july • 10.30am, 1pm, 3pm • 90min
sun 2 july • 10.30am, 1pm • 90min
University of Otago – Anatomy Museum • free
Alongside the more modern specimens of anatomy many
of the models and specimens in the Anatomy Museum date
back at least 100 years. A walk around the museum brings
to life the wonders of the human body. No minimum age, but
children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. No food,
drink, cameras or other recording devices are permitted in
the museum. You will be met at the door. This event is
wheelchair accessible.
Exploring Dunedin’s
Volcano
Sat 1 july • 10am, 11.30am • 60min • Port To Port Cruises • $58|$28
A special cruise for the school holidays! Explore the history
and sights of Dunedin’s extinct volcano from the boat! Receive
an explosive commentary from the skipper and volcano expert
as we go!
A science educator and geologist will be onboard to help
identify the different layers of lava you will see and the dykes of
rock where lava had tried to flow and then got frozen in time!
Make a volcano onboard the boat to explode!
Exploring the Dunedin Night
Sky and All Its Wonders
sat 1, MON 3, Sat 8, sun 9 july • 7pm • 120min
Beverly – Begg Observatory • $5
Get to know the southern night sky in this fun, safe,
and educational night out and see the Beverly-Begg
Observatory’s scientific work up close.
Outside, there will be guided laser pointer star tours, and
telescopes pointed at some of the most interesting spots in
our southern sky.
To find the Beverly-Begg Observatory, park in Ross Street
and follow the path beside the rugby field. Please note there
are no toilet facilities available at the observatory.
The Science of Chocolate
sun 2 july • 2pm | mon 3 july • 7pm • 60min • OCHO Factory • $25|$20
Have you ever wondered how chocolate is made? Have you
ever wondered why you crave it? Would you like to learn the
art of how to truly savour it?
Head to OCHO, the home of chocolate-making in Dunedin,
and learn about the science behind this amazing treat. The
presentation will include a tasting journey of ten different
chocolates, as well as a viewing of the largest bean to bar
factory in New Zealand.
explore!
CNC Machining and 3D
Printing Advanced
Manufacturing Tour
fri 7 JULY • 10am, 12pm, 2pm • 60min • United Machinists • free
Join United Machinists’ CEO Sarah Ramsay and her team for
a walk through of United’s advanced manufacturing facility.
Suitable for anyone curious about how things get made,
especially the next generation of manufacturing engineers.
Observe fully automated 5-axis machining, robots in action
and metal and plastics 3D printing. Meet some of United’s
young apprentices and graduates, and hear about their
career pathways and some of the exciting medical, aerospace
and hi-tech products they help make.
Visit Innovation!
thu 6 july • 9.30am, 10am, 11am, 11.30am, 1pm, 1.30pm, 2.30, 3pm
45min • Fisher & Paykel Design Centre• free
Experience Cooking Lab demos where expert chefs
demonstrate scientific principles behind dishes. Explore
acoustics in the Sound Room, observe spray arms’
cleaning power, and see intricate 3D-printed appliance
parts. Witness the technology in Fisher & Paykel’s
products and testing.
Don’t miss this chance to visit their facilities and see
science and innovation come to life.
Exploring Our Marine
Environment Through VR
thu 6 july • 12pm, 2pm • 60min
NZ Marine Studies – Centre University of Otago • $10
This is an engaging, inspiring and educational one-hour
session where you can experience VR videos filmed by
New Zealand Geographic in marine environments around
Aotearoa. Compare northern marine environments with
ones in the deep south, and pristine marine environments
with degraded ones. Investigate what causes this
damage with a focus on overfishing and pollution, as well
as what actions can be taken to show kaitiakitanga and
protect the moana.
Please note - this event may not be suitable for those
who experience photosensitivity or epilepsy.
Kāi Tahu Experience at Te
Nohoaka o Tukiauau /
Sinclair Wetlands
fri 7, Sat 8 july • 10am, 1pm • 90min • Sinclair Wetlands • free
Te Nukuroa o Matamata is a Job for Nature project
managed by Te Rūnaka o Ōtākou, that has operated
in the lower Taiari since 2021. It aims to reverse the
negative effects of drainage, adverse land use practices
in the Waihora / Waipōuri wetlands, and promote Kāi
Tahu traditional knowledge. You are invited for a guided
hikoi (walk) through the Te Nohoaka o Tukiauau / Sinclair
Wetlands, an opportunity to learn about local history, rokoā
(medicines), and raraka (weaving) materials of importance
to manawhenua. You will also experience the Te Runaka o
Ōtakou vision for the future of the environment.
explore!
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