MOTAT and Science Alive join forces in a Magic partnership

Julie Baker, MOTAT's Education Manager; Esther Tobin, Senior Exhibition Developer - science and technology centre; Tori McNoe, Science Alive Trustee

Science Alive will sponsor the Magic Box – a unique, giant STEMM station, fizzing with demonstrations, design challenges, performances and interactives that is set to be a key drawcard in MOTAT’s new centre.

Science Alive will not only sponsor the Magic Box fabrication, the charitable trust will also share its expertise and collaborate with the MOTAT team to develop education and public experiences and events to inspire visitors. 

The Science Alive Magic Box will be a transformable, multi-purpose structure, providing a place where young visitors and their whānau can get hands-on and engage with STEAMM (science, technology, engineering, arts, maths and mātauranga Māori) experiences.

Located in the centre’s Innovation Hall, it will be the focus for much of the ongoing programming of the science and technology centre ̶ showcasing innovation, incorporating self-directed design challenges, and staging demonstrations and performances.

MOTAT General Manager Museum Sally Manuireva says: “We are delighted to be partnering with Science Alive. They are a highly regarded STEM organisation, who share our passion for sparking curiosity in young learners and increasing access to science and technology for everyone. 

“Science Alive’s enthusiasm for the concept of the Magic Box and what it will deliver for visitors is affirming of our vision for the science and technology centre and the positive impact it will have. We look forward to working with them and developing our partnership.”

Science Alive Executive Trustee Alex Quinlan says: “Since its inception in 1991, Science Alive has aimed to spark hope, excitement, and curiosity among future generations through science and technology. 

“Since the loss of the beloved Science Alive Centre during the Christchurch Earthquakes, we have continued to pursue our passion for providing hands on experiences. The partnership with MOTAT enables us to provide these experiences in a new way.

“MOTAT’s vision for the science and technology center and Magic Box aligns with our purpose of making STEM accessible to all. We are thrilled to partner with MOTAT and excited to continue working with a team who are incredibly passionate. We look forward to seeing the vision come to life for visitors. “

For any media enquiries, please contact: Jessica Crosswell, Communications and Social Media Producer: jessica.crosswell@motat.org.nz; Ph 021 380 839