The results of recent experimental and analytical studies of the stress-strain behaviour of concrete confined by New Zealand manufactured Grade 275 or Grade 380 reinforcing steel are presented. First, the behaviour of three pairs of concentrically loaded reinforced concrete columns containing spirals from either Grade
275 or Grade 380 steel are compared, including the stage at which spiral fracture occurred. Second, the results of tests on four reinforced concrete columns containing Grade 380 spiral or rectangular hoop reinforcement and subjected to combined axial
load and cyclic lateral loading are reported. An analytical
study which was conducted to determine the available curvature ductility factor at the stage of fracture of the transverse reinforcement is described. The results are used to give a guideline for the safe use of Grade 380 steel as transverse confining reinforcement.