Tahuna Intermediate School pupils Thomas Turetangata Ketu-McKenzie and Quintin Sime are part of a team that competed in the First Lego League national robotics championship in Auckland last December.
First Lego League is part of a global education challenge that introduces science, technology, engineering and maths to children through fun hands-on learning and helps them gain real-world problem-solving skills with robotics.
For the competition, the team designed, built and programmed robots to navigate an obstacle course.
They also created an environmental project, devising a robot with a sampling arm that could test water quality at Tomahawk Lagoon by collecting and recording data from any point.
Competing against 30 teams from across the country, the Tahuna Intermediate team finished in the top five in the robot obstacle course and won the best robot design award.
The two technologically minded boys recently showcased their robotics skills during Tūhura Otago Museum’s Pyjamarama evening.
"We have got the match set-up, like the competition mat, and the tasks and challenges that you need to do," Thomas said.
They also provided a range of Lego materials and guided children on how they could devise and build their own robots.
With travel and entry fees in the thousands, the boys and their families are seeking sponsorship from local businesses to help offset expenses.
Those interested in helping can email or phone 021 198-5693
