Clarus recently supported the 2025 Energy Skills Aotearoa – Science Fair (STEMFest) in Taranaki through our Community Partnership Fund. Held in New Plymouth on 12–13 November, this unique event is the only energy and science fair for primary-aged children in Taranaki and Clarus’ gold sponsorship helped make this event possible for over 230 students from 13 schools across the region. Our support also helped launch new categories, including Mātauranga Māori and the Kura STEM School Support Award, broadening the event’s reach and inclusivity.
Sourced: STEMFest
Sparking interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics
STEMFest is all about sparking interest in energy, science, and engineering among Taranaki’s primary school students. The fair aims to ignite curiosity, encourage students to see how these fields connect with their everyday lives and provide a fun, hands-on environment for learning. It also helps raise the profile of the energy industry in a positive and engaging way, inspiring the next generation of innovators.
This year’s event was packed with excitement and creativity. Students tackled real-world problems in the Engineering Challenge, designed and presented their own science projects in the Super Science category, and even had the chance to dress up as their favourite science or engineering character in the Costume Category. These activities not only made learning fun but also encouraged teamwork, problem-solving, and technical skill.
Sourced: STEMFest
Creativity, tech and team work skills
Clarus’ James Irvine, GM Future Fuels and Dave Innes, Chief Engineer headed along to the event and were judges on the day. Students were celebrated for their creativity, technical skills, and teamwork, with projects ranging from cost-effective home heating solutions to establishing the effect coffee grinds have on plant growth. Fitzroy Primary School’s Harper McKenna won the Engineering Challenge trophy with a biogas-focused project, showcasing both innovation and practical thinking.
Supporting STEMFest is a natural fit with our commitment to fostering education, innovation and community engagement. By investing in events like this, we help inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers and problem-solvers, ensuring a bright future for our industry and our communities.
Visit: taranakistemfest.co.nz/
