The University of Auckland is set to host a Mobility Dogs Hackathon for 48 hours during the weekend of 12-14 July. This unique event aims to create innovative solutions that will empower disabled Kiwis to effortlessly treat and train their dogs. The event is a collaboration between the University of Auckland Maker Club and Mobility Dogs, a charitable trust dedicated to enhancing the lives of disabled individuals by providing highly trained assistance dogs.

The hackathon will challenge participants to design and develop tools that enable Mobility Dogs clients, especially those using wheelchairs, to easily give their dogs treats.

Jody Wilson, General Manager of Mobility Dogs says the event aligns with Mobility Dogs mission to empower clients through increased independence, companionship, and a sense of security. “We are thrilled to partner with the University of Auckland Maker Club for this groundbreaking event. By harnessing the creativity and expertise of participants, we hope to develop solutions that will make a significant difference in the daily lives of our clients and their loyal Mobility Dogs.”

The hackathon will take place at Kura Matahuna Unleash Space, the innovation hub and maker space run by the Business School’s Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE).

Zac Miller-Waugh, President of the University of Auckland Makers Club and an Education Software Developer at the University is volunteering his time to lead the hackathon. “Unleash Space is uniquely suited to host such an event as it has an event space and a maker space with everything from 3D printers to vacuum formers and more. Unleash Space is regularly used for prototyping, which is what this hackathon is all about. I’m looking forward to seeing what our students, staff and members of the wider community can come up with through this collaboration.”

Participants will have access to a range of tools, materials, and expert guidance to help bring their ideas to life. At the end of the challenge, projects will be showcased. The intention is to have a working prototype by the end of the weekend.

“This event is an exciting opportunity to shine a spotlight on the innovative spirit and dedication to inclusivity within our community,” says Jody. “Our goal is to enhance the independence and quality of life for disabled individuals through the special bond they share with their Mobility Dogs.”

Event Details:
Date: 12-14 July 2024 – kicking off at 6pm
Duration: 48 hours
Location: Unleash Space, Engineering Building, Symonds Street, Auckland

Find out more and register

The University of Auckland is set to host a Mobility Dogs Hackathon for 48 hours during the weekend of 12-14 July. This unique event aims to create innovative solutions that will empower disabled Kiwis to effortlessly treat and train their dogs. The event is a collaboration between the University of Auckland Maker Club and Mobility Dogs, a charitable trust dedicated to enhancing the lives of disabled individuals by providing highly trained assistance dogs.

The hackathon will challenge participants to design and develop tools that enable Mobility Dogs clients, especially those using wheelchairs, to easily give their dogs treats.

Jody Wilson, General Manager of Mobility Dogs says the event aligns with Mobility Dogs mission to empower clients through increased independence, companionship, and a sense of security. “We are thrilled to partner with the University of Auckland Maker Club for this groundbreaking event. By harnessing the creativity and expertise of participants, we hope to develop solutions that will make a significant difference in the daily lives of our clients and their loyal Mobility Dogs.”

The hackathon will take place at Kura Matahuna Unleash Space, the innovation hub and maker space run by the Business School’s Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE).

Zac Miller-Waugh, President of the University of Auckland Makers Club and an Education Software Developer at the University is volunteering his time to lead the hackathon. “Unleash Space is uniquely suited to host such an event as it has an event space and a maker space with everything from 3D printers to vacuum formers and more. Unleash Space is regularly used for prototyping, which is what this hackathon is all about. I’m looking forward to seeing what our students, staff and members of the wider community can come up with through this collaboration.”

Participants will have access to a range of tools, materials, and expert guidance to help bring their ideas to life. At the end of the challenge, projects will be showcased. The intention is to have a working prototype by the end of the weekend.

“This event is an exciting opportunity to shine a spotlight on the innovative spirit and dedication to inclusivity within our community,” says Jody. “Our goal is to enhance the independence and quality of life for disabled individuals through the special bond they share with their Mobility Dogs.”

Event Details:
Date: 12-14 July 2024 – kicking off at 6pm
Duration: 48 hours
Location: Unleash Space, Engineering Building, Symonds Street, Auckland

Find out more and register