Kiwi bodies turned into works of art for the Body Art Awards in Takapuna

The body is a temple - according to a biblical adage - and yesterday some Kiwis' bodies were turned into works of arts.

The 24 artists presenting their work at the annual New Zealand Body Art Awards had six hours to prepare their human canvas before the winners were announced at 4pm at the Spencer on Byron in Takapuna.

Sir Richard Taylor, creative director Weta Workshop, was one of the judges at the event which raised money for the New Zealand Body Art Trust.

Final touches at the NZ Body Art Awards. Photo / Dean Purcell

The showcase is also a platform for artists who want to pursue careers in makeup and special effects and aims to highlight the country as a mecca for the international film and television industry.

This year's competitors came from all over the country and from Australia.

The theme of the showcase was "once upon a time".

Emma Edworthy was one of the artists who presented at the showcase, painting black roman numerals on her model Ellie Edworthy's face.

The NZ Body Art Competition held at the Spencer on Byron. Photo / Dean Purcell

At 7.30pm members of the public were able to view the body artists' work.

According to the New Zealand Body Art Awards' website, the popularity of the Lord of the Rings trilogy, which was filmed here, helped boost recognition of the previously little-known art form.