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SCNZ 20th Anniversary: Public Artwork National Design Competition

Create a permanent public artwork for Christchurch

Steel Construction New Zealand (SCNZ) is inviting students to help create a permanent public artwork for central Ōtautahi Christchurch.

Developed in partnership with Christchurch City Council and SCAPE Public Art, this national competition offers a rare opportunity to contribute to the cultural identity of a major New Zealand city. The winning concept will be developed for fabrication and installation, creating a lasting tribute to the people who rebuilt Christchurch after the Canterbury earthquakes and the role structural steel played in the city’s recovery.

A combined Competition Brief + Entry Form (PDF) is available below.

Click Here to Download

 

Why enter

  • See your idea become a permanent public artwork in Christchurch
  • Work in multidisciplinary teams combining engineering and fine arts
  • Gain experience on a real-world public project
  • Receive mentoring from industry and arts professionals
  • Compete for a $10,000 prize
  • Leave a lasting mark on the city.

 

Who can enter

The competition is open to multidisciplinary teams comprising students from:

  • University of Canterbury
  • University of Auckland
  • AUT

Each team must include:

  • At least one engineering student (who must be an SCNZ Student Member).
  • At least one fine arts student.

Students will collaborate across disciplines to develop concepts that are both artistically compelling and technically achievable.

 

About the site

The proposed location is Rauora Park in central Ōtautahi Christchurch, opposite the Berlin Wall on Cashel Street. This popular public space provides a highly visible setting for an artwork that will become part of the city’s evolving story and urban landscape.

 

Design development

The winning entry will form the basis of the final artwork. Following selection, the concept will be further developed in collaboration with SCNZ, Christchurch City Council, SCAPE Public Art, engineers and fabricators to ensure it is safe, buildable and faithful to the original artistic vision.

 

Prize

The winning team will receive a $10,000 prize, and their concept will be developed for fabrication and installation in 2027. This is a rare opportunity to create a permanent public artwork that will be experienced by residents and visitors for years to come.

 

Ready to enter?

Download the Competition Brief + Entry Form and submit your proposal to:

 

Email: info@scnz.org
Subject: SCNZ Christchurch Artwork
Attention: Darren O’Riley

 

Entries close: 28 August 2026