Math trail sets Waikato on learning journey with bot buddy

A new kind of walking trail is set to be unveiled in Hamilton next week. Instead of showing off the region's beauty and natural resources, it will expand your mind.

The Maths Eyes trail will be the first of its kind in New Zealand and will snake its way around the University of Waikato Hamilton campus.

The trail follows the Maths Eyes concept which aims to raise awareness of maths in daily life, in order to empower people in their knowledge and skills.

The Maths Eyes Chat Bot will accompany merry-maths-travellers on their way around the track. The bot acts as an interactive buddy, helping with questions and hints when users need them.

National Centre of Literacy and Numeracy for adults director Diana Coben says the trail is about engaging the whole community. Adults, children, teachers, students and community groups can share in taking the Maths Eyes trip.

"It will enable them to recognise and be intrigued by the mathematics all around them. Opening your maths eyes promotes the usefulness and beauty of mathematics. Everyone has maths eyes - they just need to be opened.

Bilingual signs mark the path and challenges along the 1.6km trail, in both te reo Māori and English.

As one of the 'Ms' in STEM, it's important to encourage mathematics in New Zealand communities. The opportunities math skills can open up for people are well worth a short hike.

The trail will be officially opened at 11am, Friday 26 May, and all are welcome to attend.

Trailblazers can access the Maths Eyes Chat Bot through the facebook messenger app.