Professor George Clifton, of Auckland, CNZM for services to structural engineering
Professor Charles Clifton was a structural engineer at HERA (Heavy Engineering Research Association) in Auckland, where he established the structural steel service at a time when the use of steel in multi-level buildings was almost non-existent. He has made significant contributions to standards, guidelines and research programme development in the steel industry. From his innovations, notably the sliding hinge joint, buildings can remain serviceable and not require demolition following a seismic event. He helped form what is now Steel Construction New Zealand. He is Professor of Civil Engineering at the University of Auckland. Professor Clifton has had a role on the Expert Advisory Group to the NIST National Fire Research Laboratory in Washington, United States, is widely published and is a sought-after international presenter and visiting professor.