Papamoa College signage is in the environmental graphics category finals of the 2011 NZ BeST Design Awards.

It is made by Tauranga business Woods Creative and its design director, Reuben Woods, says this is about community.

Papamoa College signage is in a national final for design.

'We are proud to have worked with Papamoa College on the development of their brand,” says Reuben.

'This is where our kids will be educated, and we are thrilled to be involved with the school – as well as being recognised nationally for the work we have done.”

The awards, organised by the Designers Institute of New Zealand, celebrate the country's outstanding designs of the year across the fields of product, spatial, graphic and interactive design.

'This shows that our creativity, innovation and design are up there with the best in New Zealand.

'We are passionate about working with local businesses and adding value through design.”

Papamoa College principal Steve Lindsey says the school's signage is appropriate for a school.

'The visual design elements and the signage, make an already well designed building more inviting for people to learn and work in,” says Steve.

'The curves and shapes help to soften the strong lines and bold structures.

'The circular theme of the design fits very well with our view that learning should be engaging and interesting.

'Learning is not always linear, but is multi-faceted and ongoing.”

Also in the BeST Design Awards finals from Tauranga is the Family Design Co. It is a finalist in both the self promotion and identity development – small scale categories.

The awards dinner where winners are announced is on October 7.