The Warren Trust was established in 2006 and over the last decade has given more than $1.4 million to promote architectural education to both the architectural profession and the wider public in New Zealand. The Awards for Architectural Writing were established in 2015, as a way for lovers of architecture and writing to have their voices heard.

Like last year, this year’s competition includes essay writing, but entries can also be made in the form of poetry and fiction through to comics, creative non-fiction and humour.

The writing topic for this year is simple: What does architecture mean to you?

That might include answering questions such as:

• What emotions do you feel when looking at, reading about or discussing architecture?
• What is your favourite piece of architecture and why?
• What do you believe makes great architecture?
• Does architecture mean sustainability alongside great design?
• What role can great architecture play in our growing towns and cities?
• Finally, we will publish a book of winning and highly commended essays for people to collect and share. The essays will be published online, and may be syndicated to external media partners, depending on their subject matter.

There are three entry categories:

• Tamariki: up to the age of 13. Writing up to 800 words.
• Rangatahi: ages 13-18, or currently enrolled in secondary school. Writing up to 1000 words.
• Open: everyone else. Writing up to 1500 words.

The prizes:

• Winner in the Tamariki category: $500
• Winner in the Rangatahi category: $1000
• Winner in the Open category: $2000
• Highly commended (three prizes across all categories): $200 book voucher

Send your entry with your name and category you are entering to writingawards@nzia.co.nz. Tamariki and Rangatahi entries should include the age of the writer and the school you are attending.

Entries close on Saturday 15 October 2022.

Winners will be announced on Friday 30 October 2022.

The Warren Trust Awards for Architectural Writing are a joint venture between The Warren Trust and Te Kāhui Whaihanga. Go to Te Kāhui Whaihanga’s website for more information.