Solving Rubik's cube in seconds

A Hamilton school girl has high hopes for the national championship for fast solvers of the Rubik's cube.

Sacred Heart College student Angela Cayanan, who ranks third in New Zealand for the standard 3x3 Rubik's cube, is aiming to win at Sunday's speedcubing nationals in Auckland.

"I've been practising a lot more than I used to because I stopped for a little while so, hopefully I may win.

"I used to do it all day during the holidays and my mum would always tell me off but I'd still do it," Angela said.

The 16-year-old can solve a Rubik's Cube with one hand in 44.20 seconds and averages 15.79 seconds using both hands.

While her mother is supportive of what Angela says is a "weird hobby", her grandma is her biggest fan and her teachers also support her.

"The teachers love me for it so, that is a bonus.

"But most people who go to competitions are in university, it is quite scary because they're all older than me. There are a few people who are younger but most I compete with are older."

Angela does not want to get nervous because it could affect her concentration. Her way of avoiding butterflies is to think of herself practising in her room.

"I'm excited but I try not to be nervous, I kind of think everyone's probably feeling the same."

Her tips for those who don't know how to solve a cube is to check clips on YouTube, then practise - a lot.

"You work it out. I kind of watched other people do it and figured it out and then practised it.

"It all comes down to practice."