When Meccanoid's arm was bent back, it triggered a sequence where the robot would swing its arm back up and over, 'slapping' the kids' eagerly outstretched palms.
With the prototype, the commands were given by MOTAT experience coordinator Andrew McCartney through an iPad app, but the finished version of Meccanoid will respond to voice commands and body movement as well as the app.
MOTAT communications advisor Vanessa Hefer said Meccanoid was an award-winning robotics invention, as well as something fun to play with.
"This is quite a breakthrough.
"It's not just a toy, it's cutting edge technology in the field of robotics."
In January, Meccanoid was awarded the top prize at the Living in Digital Times' Last Gadget Standing Showdown in Las Vegas.
Meccanoid uses an open source Robotics Building platform that lets users programme thousands of different commands, without needing an understanding of robotics.
"What makes the Meccanoid really stand out is its programmability," said Ms Hefer.
"You don't have to learn code, or run through hours of individual instructions as no prior experience is needed to teach the robot once it is assembled."
Like all Meccano toys, there was an emphasis on education with Meccanoid.
"Meccano has been there for ages but this is kind of like a huge step forward for them because it's incorporating smart technology."
The toy would be sold disassembled in a kit and the user would need to put it together.
Those struggling could be helped along by the robot itself, said Ms Hefer.
"Apparently it can actually talk you through the process while you're building it."
MOTAT will have two versions of Meccanoid, one slightly shorter, on display over Queen's Birthday weekend and Ms Hefer expects they will be a hit.
"You can just see by the enthusiasm of these children that there's going to be a good reaction."
People keen to get their hands on the finished version of Meccanoid, which was due out in September, can pre-order one at MOTAT for $499.
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