Lexus New Zealand is proud to announce the continuation of its partnership with Auckland University of Technology (AUT) and the University of Auckland (UoA) to continue to support emerging design talent in New Zealand through their local Lexus Design Awards.

Dedicated to empowering and encouraging the next generation of creators, Lexus Design Award inspires the emerging design talent to propose imaginative, sustainable solutions while expressing three key principles of the Lexus brand: Anticipate, Innovate and Captivate.

“We’re extremely excited to bring Lexus Design Awards back for another year. It’s important that we continue to invest in the youth of New Zealand to both challenge and reward them by showcasing their incredible design talents” says Andrew Davis, Vice President of Lexus New Zealand.

“We’re looking for students to envision inventive ways to reach a sustainable future and offer actionable solutions to the issues we face as a local and global society.”

“After expanding the awards to both AUT and UoA we are again excited to connect with many young designers to find out how the next generation will articulate their solutions and creative brilliance this year.”

AUT Industrial Design and Creative Technologies students will be welcomed back to the local award this year, as well as those studying Design at UoA. After expanding to UoA for the first time in 2022 in The Future of Work and Play, Lexus is pleased to announce that a second course has been offered to participate in the local competition in 2023: Design for the Natural Environment.

Associate Dean & Director, External Engagement Office at Auckland University of Technology, Dr Yvonne Chan Cashmore, says “The Faculty of Design and Creative Technologies at AUT is delighted to engage in the New Zealand leg of the Lexus Design Awards competition once again. This collaboration exemplifies our commitment to nurturing innovative design thinking and empowering students to shape a sustainable and imaginative future.”

Director of Design Programmes at University of Auckland, Angus Campbell, says “The UoA Design Programme is focused on providing opportunities for students to use design to creatively impact on real world issues. Lexus Design Award has provided our students with a wonderful opportunity to do just this, and through local mentorship, has also provided opportunities for our students to gain experience and insights into the local creative industry.”

Since its inception in 2013, Lexus Design Award has served as a global stage to propel emerging talents into the limelight, igniting remarkable careers. As the award continues to evolve, Lexus is aiming to enrich its platform, nurturing the creative development of new talent and focusing on creative growth.

The local competition is evolving too. Born out of a desire to encourage local talent to enter the global competition and put New Zealand design on the world stage, 2023 marks the fourth year Lexus New Zealand has partnered with tertiary institutions to run a local version that helps emerging designers through mentorship and a cash prize.

Once in a lifetime mentorship remains a critical part of Lexus Design Award at the global and local level. In 2023, students at both universities will be supported by the integration of Lexus ambassadors Simon James, Scott Bridgens and Tim Rundle from Resident, to provide advice and support for students. The mentors will also contribute to the local judging committee.

Two* first place winners in the local competition will receive $4,000, and two* runners up will receive $2,000. All four winners will also have an opportunity to expand their professional horizons through an endorsement of their global entries by Lexus New Zealand.

Lexus will be looking for captivating designs that intersect with thoughtful solutions, designs that can truly make a brighter future for people and societies in diverse circumstances.

*One winner and runner up from each university will be chosen.