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CLIENT NEWS: New naming rights sponsor for school technology challenge

New naming rights sponsor for school technology challenge

Central King Country REAP's annual schools technology challenge will go ahead next month thanks to new sponsorship from local energy retailer, King Country Energy (KCE)

Many thousands of primary school students (years 6-8) within the Central King Country region have participated in this annual event since it was established more than 20 years ago.

However, Central King Country REAP's education manager Jenny Gawith said the organisation has struggled to find an ongoing sponsor for the event since BP withdrew funding in 2013.

"BP sponsored the technology challenge for many years throughout New Zealand. When they withdrew their funding nationally, schools in the Central King Country decided the event should continue in our region.

"We (Central King Country REAP) have been, and will continue to be, responsible for co-ordinating the event in this region every year. It's only now that we have found a business willing to sponsor the challenge ongoing.

"We are beyond thrilled to announce KCE as naming rights sponsor for five years, with a right of renewal for another five years post 2020. The event will hereby be known as the KCE Technology Challenge," Jenny said.

KCE's sponsorship will cover the cost of the event annually, and all resources required to run the Challenge for the next five years at-minimum.

Jenny said this year's event, held at the Taumarunui Cosmopolitan Lounge on Wednesday 8 June, is likely to attract around 150 students from more than 12 local primary schools.

"Basically it is a team problem-solving event that promotes excellence in science and technology," she said.

"On the day, there will be four different challenges for the students. One challenge will require preparation and practice. The other 'mystery' challenges will be revealed on the day.

KCE community relations manager Helen Peacock said the company is proud to sponsor the continuation of the event in the Central King Country.

"It's an honour to support an event that builds intellect and practical skills amongst our Central King Country students. We're excited to see the challenge, noise, and fun unfold before our eyes next month," she said.

The 2016 KCE Technology Challenge will be held at the Taumarunui Cosmopolitan Lounge from 10am on Wednesday 8 June 2016.

Schools interested in entering are encouraged to contact Jenny Gawith on (07) 896 8680 or email education@ckcreap.org.nz