The National Graphic Design Awards were established in the mid seventies to celebrate New Zealand’s best graphic design. Attracting 300 entries, the awards exhibited 130 works as part of a touring exhibition and lecture series.
In 1988 the Best New Zealand Design Awards was established to showcase the effectiveness of graphic design. It celebrated New Zealand designers and enabled a growing community to benefit from the experience of a jury of international peers.
In 1992 the awards were expanded to include the disciplines of interior, product, fashion and craft. Established New Zealand artist Terry Stringer was commissioned to design the supreme award for best-of-discipline. Stringer used Leonardo da Vinci’s measure of man to symbolise design and a Nikau Palm to express the New Zealand spirit.
In 2010 Interactive was established as a discipline in its own right. In addition, new trophies were created along with a refreshed Best Design Awards identity programme.
Entries judged Gold in each category are awarded the Gold Pin. The very best project in each discipline is given the supreme Purple Pin and held up as work that raises the bar for New Zealand design. The John Britten Black Pin is awarded to an individual for their leadership, vision and achievement both in New Zealand and internationally. The Designers Institute of New Zealand Black Pin is awarded to a member of the Institute who has made a lasting and valuable contribution to the design profession and design culture in New Zealand.
