Thirty-eight people have entered a logo competition for the new southern health board.
However, a hold-up with the judging means the new logo might not be ready on May 1, when the Otago and Southland District Health Boards form the Southern District Health Board.
Chief executive support manager Cherie Wells said the delay with judging meant the logo might not be ready in time for May 1.
It had been hoped the panel could convene last Thursday, the day entries closed, but that was not possible.
Also, choosing a winner was a complex process, as many issues including copyright and technical matters had to be considered.
It was possible a suitable winner might not be found from among the entries.
Ms Wells was unable to say what would happen if that was the case.
However, the entries had impressed.
"We are amazed with people's creativity and thankful that they have taken the time to enter," Ms Wells said.
She noted some people had put in multiple entries, many with minor tweaks, such as colour variations.
Telecom has donated an Apple iPhone for the winner.
The judging panel consisted of management, IT experts, Maori representatives and an external creative adviser.
