Answering the big questions through Earth Science Fair
- 9 hours ago
- 2 min read
Science helps find answers to questions we have about the physical world around us. Technology uses those discoveries to solve problems and improve lives. It has been said that "science and engineering research has become the most powerful force for change in our society". The Science Fair is about encouraging young people towards problem solving and creative discovery.
After our success in 2025, we had five students who worked on four projects for the 2026 fair. All of them worked extremely hard over Terms 1 to 3, developing their ideas and methodologies independently.
The projects were displayed and judged on Friday 28 August at Michael Park School in Ellerslie, where students discussed their work with the judging panel. The awards were announced the following day, and we are incredibly proud to report that our students won two of the top awards in the Planet Earth and Beyond category.
Harper Spurway (Year 10) was awarded First Prize in the Year 10 Planet Earth and Beyond category for the project 'Shifting Sands'. Harper investigated the iron extracted from the sand on New Zealand's west coast beaches at Port Waikato and the impact this may be having on iron-dependent organisms in those areas. The rigor of Harper's research and presentation impressed the judges and earned the top award in the category.
Annika and Avika Singh (Year 13) were awarded Second Prize in the Year 13 Planet Earth and Beyond category for their project 'AI's Drinking Problem'. Building on their success at the 2025 Science Fair, the sisters investigated the environmental costs associated with artificial intelligence, examining the water used to cool data centres and the potential environmental impacts of discharging warmed water into New Zealand rivers.
Both projects will be showcased at the Science Fair Prizegiving Ceremony on Monday 7 September.
Daanish Khan (Year 13) created a highly engaging report on the 'Urban Heat Island Effect' and how it is affecting New Zealand's climate and energy use. Entered in the Planet Earth and Beyond category, the project received positive feedback from the judges for its relevance and thorough research.
Abigail Cheng (Year 13) carried out research into 'Which Type of Break Best Restores Sustained Attention After a Period of Work in High School Students'. Thirty students participated in experiments testing changes in fatigue and concentration. Entered in the Human Mind and Body category, the project demonstrated excellent scientific methodology and data collection.
We are extremely proud of all five students and the innovative work they produced. To have four projects entered and to win two major category awards is a tremendous accomplishment and a fitting reward for the dedication, curiosity, and perseverance shown by all involved.
- Mr P. Irwin
Director of Science
