Join the MakerFest Design Challenge 2026 to Solve Real Sustainability Problems

The STEM Wana Trust is driving this local innovation forward with their latest competitive event, powered by TechStep. This initiative gives participants a platform to apply practical skills to urgent ecological questions, ensuring that community-led design sits at the centre of local environmental decision-making.

Developing practical responses to regional environmental issues is vital for the future of our communities. Adobe Images.

Event Details and Timeline

• Challenge Reveal Date: Wednesday 29 July 2026

• Project Duration: Teams have six weeks to design, build, and test a prototype.

• Festival Finals: Showcase and judging takes place on 12 and 13 September 2026.

• Location: Tauranga, Bay of Plenty

• Prizes Available: A $500 cash prize, exclusive awards, and the opportunity to pitch ideas directly to industry leaders.

  
  

Developing Solutions for the MakerFest Design Challenge

The MakerFest Design Challenge is open to students, makers, engineers, and creatives who want to collaborate on a meaningful sustainability project. Over the six-week period, teams will refine their ideas into working prototypes that address a specific environmental issue.

A panel of industry experts will evaluate the final submissions during the main festival weekend. In addition to expert evaluation, public visitors will have the opportunity to vote for their favourite designs, making it a true community-led celebration of regional science and tech ingenuity.

Kimihia atu