The competition, organised by lighting design company Lighthouse Dunedin, was a way to bridge the gap between the tertiary sector and the business world, Lighthouse commercial sales manager Dave Bratton said.
"It is a chance for us to work with the young designers coming through: they share our knowledge and we share in their enthusiasm," he said.
He approached the polytechnic with the idea as part of his advisory work with the design school.
Design lecturer Mike Wilson said the competition was a good way for students to learn practical skills.
Students had worked on their lights as part of a product design elective in their course.
Juliet Symes (21) said her light concept, Waste Not, began with the theme of waste reduction.
"I thought about waste and the consumer as well. Nothing was thrown away in the light's making."
The design of Simon Higgs (19) also had a modern theme based on the idea of having an interactive light which was adaptable to suit the consumer's ever-changing environment.
Mr Bratton said it was the first year the competition had run and Lighthouse planned to sponsor it for another three years at least.
Design lecturers will select 12 lights to go on public display at Lighthouse Dunedin's showroom in July.
The designers have the chance to win up to $1000 through a public and private vote.
The winner of the public vote will receive $500 and the private judges' choice will also receive $500.
Both sections were judged blind so could be won by the same entrant, Mr Bratton said.
Lighthouse is considering ways to market and develop some of the creations, with the designer retaining intellectual property rights.
Mr Wilson said a judging date had yet to be confirmed, but would likely be early next month.
Mr Bratton had regular discussions with design classes to further their understanding of lighting design. - Ellie Constantine