Budding scientists at Central Northland Science and Technology Fair

Judges Rob Powell, left and Norma Scobie assessing entries in the Health and Wellness Award section which has been sponsored by Manaia PHO.

Hundreds of budding scientists from schools in Northland are putting their brains to the test this week in the Central Northland Science and Technology Fair.

With the science fair now in its 40th year, and sponsored by Golden Bay Cement, the students' work is on display at Forum North, in Whangārei, where judges yesterday assessed their it.

The public can view their work until Thursday when the winners will be announced.

Northern Advocate photographer John Stone went along to see which problems the young scientists were trying to solve.

Poster judges Sarah Brownie, left and John Hampson, both from Whangārei, catch up after judging the Year 13 Presentation Posters.

First time entrant Erin Griffin from Kamo Intermediate checks her entry The History of Make Up at Forum North.

Kamo Intermediate research entrants catch up after installing their entries, from left Jayden Hudson-Owen, Jack Bassett, Arlo Haigh and Mason Gray.

Year Nine Whangārei Girls High student Brianna Powell with judge Sue Holmes, discuss the work she has done on shoreline predation of nesting seabirds.

Whangārei Boys' High School Year 9 students Jayden Edwards, left and Curtis Robinson with their presentation, titled "Fishy Business" at the Central Northland Science and Technology Fair.