TerribleHack 2025

This year marked my first time at the helm of organizing TerribleHack. Having dipped my toes in the 2024 edition, I was eager to dive deeper and tackle the challenges head-on. Partnering with the University of Auckland Maker Club was essential, landing us the University of Auckland Unleash Space (Makerspace) venue and funding for limited catering.

The Rollercoaster Begins

Planning kicked off about a month prior, but in true chaotic fashion, I jetted off to Mexico for a company trip before the real work could be completed. Returning just 10 days before the event was a tad nerve-wracking. Those days were a whirlwind of preparation: acquiring lanyards, high-gsm paper, updating posters and handouts—essentially doing my best impression of logistics wizard Zac.

The universe, however, decided to play its hand. Printing woes with misaligned documents popped up just as attendees started to arrive, but with the clock ticking, we powered through. I figured it added some unique flair, right?

Showtime

I had the pleasure of opening the event. After the usual this and that about health and safety, the vibe, and the wheres and whats, I launched into the exciting part with a video I had pieced together the weekend before. We kicked things off with some icebreakers and mingling exercises, setting the mood for collaboration and creativity. Then, the real magic began.

Watch at your own risk! Very loud, and not very good!

Project Mayhem

By the weekend's end, 17 diverse projects came to life. From the engaging weather simulation experience of the THUNDERDOME, to Glamour Wash's glitter shower, or to the emotionally destructive Dreaditations, we saw some dastardly ideas come to life. Witnessing every participant deliver on their vision was nothing short of inspiring. The atmosphere buzzed with innovation, fueled by caffeine and camaraderie.

The Finishing Touch

As a special nod to the spirit of TerribleHack, I crafted this year's trophy using denim. Our first fabric trophy. By ironing a 3D version of the logo onto it, the winners could ceremoniously tear it apart into pieces, sharing the victory with their team. A little unorthodox, sure, but it felt perfectly fitting.

Conclusion

TerribleHack 2025 was a whirlwind of creativity and chaos, perfectly embodying the essence of what makes hackathons thrilling. Every bit of effort, stress, and unexpected turns added up to a memorable event. While there were lessons to be learned for next time - like, say, double-checking prints - overall, it was a resounding success.

Here's to chasing more terrible ideas next year!