INNOVATE AND ELECTRIFY – FREE FESTIVAL
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TAURANGA, NZ, 08 June 2026 – STEM Wana is proud to announce the inaugural MakerFest, a two-day sustainable technology festival taking place on 12–13 September 2026.
Innovate & Electrify! Discover the secrets to big savings and a cleaner future.
MakerFest NZ is a free, future-focused event designed to inspire innovation, creativity, and environmental responsibility through the development and showcasing of renewable energy and electrification projects. Bringing together makers, creators, inventors, educators, students, entrepreneurs, families, and community members from across Aotearoa New Zealand, the festival celebrates hands-on learning and the power of innovation to shape a more sustainable future.
The festival addresses some of today’s most pressing challenges, including reliance on fossil fuels, environmental impacts, limited access to sustainable technologies, insufficient public engagement in climate action, and the growing skills gap in green technologies.
This year Powerco has been confirmed as the headline sponsor of the MakerFest NZ.
“We’re proud to be part of the communities we serve. That’s why we support events and organisations across the regions where we operate. Whether it’s restoring biodiversity, helping the next generation learn about STEM, or helping people make the most of their energy use, we love getting behind the causes our customers are passionate about.” Powerco, Headline Sponsor for MakerFest 2026
Inspired by the global Makerspace movement, MakerFest NZ aims to empower both youth and adults of all backgrounds to explore their creative potential, develop practical skills, and connect with others passionate about innovation and sustainability.
We are also so excited to have secured early support from: Tauranga Western Bay Community Event Fund, Grace Team +MORE, BECA, Downtown Tauranga, One.NZ, Port of Tauranga, Trevelyan, and Basestation.
Pre-Festival Events
JULY 2026 — MakerFest Student Day
A dedicated day for students to explore STEM, sustainability, and hands-on innovation.
AUGUST 2026 — MakerFest Design Challenge
An exciting opportunity for emerging innovators and creators to showcase sustainable solutions and creative thinking.
Festival Weekend
12–13 September 2026
FREE TO ATTEND
Festival attendees can expect:
- Tech Talks
- Skill-Sharing Workshops
- “Meet the Makers” Experiences
- Sustainable Technology Showcases
- Renewable Energy and Electrification Demonstrations
- Interactive Exhibits and Hands-On Activities
MakerFest is currently calling for makers and innovators from all over Aotearoa New Zealand to join us for a weekend that celebrates unique makers, artisans, engineers, tinkers, designers, hobbyists, and entrepreneurs who are passionate about creating, innovating, and inspiring the next generation.
If you have a passion for making and a desire to share your knowledge, we want to hear from you!
For expressions of interest and further information about MakerFest NZ 2026, please get in touch with the STEM Wana team at www.makerfest.nz
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For all media queries, please contact:
Felia Faber – Project & Community Coordinator – email: hello@makerfest.nz
About STEM Wana Trust
A registered Charity in New Zealand working to promote awareness of opportunities in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) to young people and their families through community events, collaborations and meaningful partnerships. Owner of the multi-award winning Tauranga STEM Festival (STEMFest). We provide opportunities where children of all socio-economic backgrounds can engage, connect and collaborate in making the world around them a better place. To use the problem solving skills inherent in STEM to help transform communities towards prosperity.
