NZ AquaBots is the first underwater robotics programme for school-aged children in New Zealand.

NZAquaBots is an innovative underwater robotics program where youth teams build an underwater Remotely Operated Vehicle then compete in New Zealand themed challenges. Students learn engineering concepts and hone skills in problem solving, teamwork, scientific communication, and technical applications. Building an aquabot teaches basic skills in design and encourages students to explore naval architecture and marine and ocean engineering principles. It also teaches basic science, electrical concepts, tool safety and technical procedures. Each year the theme of the programme is changed to reflect what is going on in Aotearoa and/or the world, this year we chose to work with Te Tai Tokerau Debris Monitoring Project and create the theme ’Ocean Pollution’ but previous years have been: Pasifika Navigation (2019) and Historical Maori Fishing Practices (2018).

The kit is re-usable, as advanced students need to modify the structure of the AquaBot from year to year in order to compete. Winning teams are invited to compete in the International Sea Perch competition in the USA.