Outreach in the Community - Explore our upcoming events and join us for hands-on STEM experiences
Nano Fest, Dunedin
Nano Fest is back! From 15–19 July 2026, dive into a week of science, discovery, and innovation at the bustling Festival Hub in Ōtepoti Dunedin. With amazing science shows, hands-on workshops, fascinating talks, and interactive experiences for all ages, the New Zealand International Science Festival continues its long-standing mission of inspiring curiosity and showcasing the incredible role science plays in our everyday lives.
Science Alive will be joining the festival with Byron from the Outreach Team, bringing along the immersive Discovery Dome experience.
Byron from the Science Alive Outreach Team will be presenting TWO incredible immersive experiences at the Nano Fest Expo these school holidays — and you can find him on the top floor of Meridian Mall.
Solar System Exploration
Fly through space on an unforgettable guided journey through our Solar System. In this 45-minute interactive experience, tamariki and whānau will explore the eight planets (sorry, Pluto!), travelling from Mercury to Neptune while discovering what makes each planet unique and how they orbit our Sun.
Antarctica Experience
Travel to the coldest place on Earth in this immersive 15-minute 360° adventure. Journey alongside Antarctic researchers by Hägglund, helicopter, snowmachine, and on foot as you explore some of the most remote places in the world. Discover how scientists live, work, and collect data in the coolest place on the planet.
- 3 session times of each experience daily
- Interactive and immersive experiences
- Perfect for curious explorers of all ages
Be sure to check the website for session times and details — we’d love to see you there!
Important Information
When: 15-19 July 2026 (school holidays)
Time: 6 sessions / day
Where: Second floor (by the top of the escalator), Meridian Mall, Dunedin
Children’s Day - 1st March 2026
Free children’s activities and entertainment include face painting, mini jeeps, pony rides, bouncy castles, barbers by YCD, crafts, stage performances and much more. There’s something for everyone, making it an unforgettable day for all ages.
The Science Alive Outreach team will be attending with the Build It! activity. It is all about hands-on exploration — testing engineering skills, strengthening problem-solving, and discovering what’s possible through teamwork and creativity. We are looking forward to seeing young minds light up when given the space to experiment, collaborate, and innovate.
Pack a picnic, bring some blankets and chair, and enjoy a relaxed day out with loved ones. Food, drinks and ice creams will be available to purchase from various food stalls and trucks. Free sausage sizzle, first in first served.
Share the aroha and create lasting memories with your favourite small people.
Important Information
When: 1st March, 2026
Time: 11:00am - 3:00pm
Where: Cuthberts Green, 56 Kearneys Road, Linwood
This is a smoke-free, vape-free and alcohol-free event. Please leave your dogs at home.
Festival of Women and Girls - 21st February, 2026
Join us as we explore the incredible world of science through the lens of women's achievements and discoveries! This is a free, drop-in event running 10am to 3pm.
The aim of our festival is to inspire curiosity and passion for science in girls and young women through engaging hands-on activities, interactive demonstrations, and meaningful connections with women scientists. Showcasing the diverse and exciting ways science shapes our understanding of the world, while highlighting the vital contributions women make across all scientific fields.
Important Information
When: 21st February, 2026
Time: 10:00am - 3:00pm
Where: Tūranga Library , Christchurch