AUCKLAND.- “Architecture is everywhere. With the design of buildings, urban and rural environments, and interiors, architects contribute skills, commitment and passion. The challenges, successes and failures of the past and future form the world we all share. This is the richness and joy of architecture. Get into Architecture.”

Pete Bossley, President of the Auckland branch of the New Zealand Institute of Architects

Architectural sculptures constructed from cans of food; a Japanese architect renowned for his ultra skinny buildings and a Melbourne architect who is a “committed urbanite” will be the stars of Auckland Architecture Week from September 6 -12, 2006.

Architecture Week is an established event throughout the world which offers a host of activities relating to architecture taking place over a single week. Auckland Architecture Week, The Joy of Architecture, will celebrate the architecture, buildings and urban spaces in and around Auckland.

Organized by the Auckland branch of the New Zealand Institute of Architects, the event aims to get architects, designers, urban planners and the public involved in celebrating the diversity and excitement of architecture. It will also be an opportunity for architects and the general public to learn more about their city and to become involved in its history and its future.

The Auckland War Memorial Museum, the Auckland City Council, Auckland University, UNITEC, and the Historic Places Trust are among the community groups and organizations who will take part in the event.

Most of the events will take place in the Britomart area with all events (excluding the Waro Kishi lecture) open to the public and free of charge.

One of the most visual and entertaining events of the week long event will be Can Construct. A number of top architectural practices will compete to create giant installations or sculptures using thousands of cans of food. The public will be able to watch architects working on their installations and at the close of the exhibition, which will be held at The Britomart Pavilion, the cans will be donated to the Auckland City Mission.