Visitors driving in to Upper Hutt will soon be greeted by a huge fantail.

A sculptural gateway sign - six metres high and 14 across - is to be put up on State Highway 2, to welcome motorists into the city.

Upper Hutt Mayor Wayne Guppy says the project has been on the horizon for some time.

The sculpture will be of a fantail nestled upon river rocks, to represent the community's love of the environment and the river.

Pricing for the project is expected to be finalised before Christmas, and the sculpture finished early 2015.