Design & Architecture

What You Could Do

Career Opportunities in Architecture & Design

Careers across New Zealand’s architecture and design sector are diverse and often competitive, particularly within specialised practice areas.

While some design-related roles may be accessible without a degree, most professional architectural careers require a bachelor’s degree followed by postgraduate study and practical experience.

Here are some key roles within the industry:

Residential Architect

Residential architects work closely with clients to design and develop homes.

Responsibilities may include:

• Translating ideas into practical designs
• Creating functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces
• Managing budgets and constraints
• Ensuring compliance with NZ building regulations
• Coordinating with consultants and builders

Creativity and client communication are essential.

Commercial Architect

Commercial architects focus on business and large-scale developments such as:

• Office buildings
• Retail spaces
• Schools and public buildings
• Mixed-use developments

The role requires:

• Strong technical expertise
• Understanding of building codes and compliance
• Knowledge of safety and accessibility standards
• Budgeting and project coordination skills

Urban Planner

Urban planners (often aligned with urban design) shape how land and spaces are used.

They typically:

• Develop land-use strategies
• Advise on environmental and social impacts
• Work with councils and developers
• Interpret planning regulations
• Support sustainable development outcomes

This role focuses on broader environments rather than individual buildings.

Architectural Technician / CAD Technician

These professionals create detailed technical drawings and digital models.

Duties often include:

• Producing 2D and 3D documentation
• Supporting architects and designers
• Preparing consent-ready drawings
• Using specialised design software
• Ensuring technical accuracy

A highly practical and in-demand role.

Landscape Architect

Landscape architects design outdoor environments such as:

• Parks and public spaces
• Urban landscapes
• Gardens and courtyards
• Streetscapes
• Recreational environments

This career blends:

• Design
• Environmental understanding
• Spatial planning
• Planting and ecological knowledge

Beyond These Roles

The industry also includes careers in:

• Interior design
• Sustainable design consultancy
• Heritage & conservation
• Visualisation & 3D modelling
• Project management
• Architectural research
• Administration & business operations

Working Styles

Professionals may work:

✅ Within architecture or design firms
✅ Freelance or contract-based
✅ In multidisciplinary consultancies
✅ Across government or regulatory bodies

Regardless of structure, many roles involve:

• Client engagement
• Portfolio development
• Project collaboration

A Creative & Challenging Career

Architecture and design offer a rewarding mix of:

• Creativity
• Technical problem-solving
• Collaboration
• Project delivery

Graduate Outcomes & Gender Split

Graduate Outcomes

Graduate employment surveys help provide insight into what career outcomes may look like after completing tertiary study.

For students considering careers in architecture and the built environment, recent trends in New Zealand indicate strong employment prospects, particularly as demand continues across housing, infrastructure, and sustainable design.

Typical patterns show:

• Solid full-time employment outcomes
• Strong overall employment rates
• Increased opportunities with experience and specialisation

It’s important to remember that graduate data may not fully capture those who are:

• Working part-time
• Freelancing or self-employed
• Pursuing postgraduate study
• Building portfolio careers

Overall, outcomes in architecture and built environment disciplines remain encouraging.

Gender Representation

Gender balance within New Zealand’s architecture and design sector varies by role, specialisation, and seniority.

Historically, some areas of the industry have seen higher male participation. However, this is steadily evolving.

Industry-wide efforts are focused on:

✅ Increasing diversity and inclusion
✅ Supporting women in architecture & design
✅ Encouraging girls into STEM and built environment careers
✅ Promoting equitable career advancement

Professional organisations, educators, and employers continue to drive positive change across the sector.

An Evolving Profession

Architecture and design in New Zealand are becoming more:

• Diverse
• Inclusive
• Interdisciplinary
• Globally connected

Creating broader opportunities for future professionals.

Average Salary

Current surveys in the sector indicate the median salaries for full-time roles in this industry as:

• Entry-level/Graduate ArchitectRoles: $49-$58,900
• Experienced Architect Roles: $70-$89,000
• Head Architect Roles: $118-$158,000
• CAD Technician: $81-$90,000

Salaries can be pretty varied, with lower expectations for entry-level roles. Salaries are also determined by several factors, including:

• The segment of the industry you work within.
• Your job title and seniority.
• The amount of experience you have.
• Location, some rural areas may pay less than roles in main cities.

Industry Growth

Industry Structure & Growth

New Zealand’s architecture sector is made up of a diverse mix of businesses, including:

• Sole practitioners
• Small and boutique studios
• Medium-sized design practices
• Large multidisciplinary firms

These businesses deliver services across residential, commercial, civic, and infrastructure projects.

Business Landscape

A significant proportion of architectural professionals in New Zealand operate within:

• Small practices
• Independent studios
• Sole-trader structures

Many architects also work within:

• Larger architectural firms
• Multidisciplinary consultancies
• Government agencies
• Local councils

Industry Growth Trends

Like many countries, New Zealand’s architecture industry has experienced periods of fluctuation influenced by:

• Economic cycles
• Construction activity
• Housing demand
• Infrastructure investment
• COVID-19 disruptions

While the pandemic created temporary challenges, long-term growth expectations remain positive, supported by:

✅ Ongoing residential development
✅ Urban intensification
✅ Sustainability initiatives
✅ Public infrastructure projects

Employment Patterns

Architectural professionals are commonly employed in:

• Architectural and design firms
• Engineering and consultancy businesses
• Property and development companies
• Central and local government

Smaller practices remain a defining feature of the sector, offering:

• Creative autonomy
• Diverse project exposure
• Entrepreneurial career pathways

Looking Ahead

Demand for architectural expertise continues to be driven by:

• Housing and urban development
• Sustainable and energy-efficient design
• Infrastructure renewal
• Community and civic projects

Qualifications and Entry Pathways

Becoming an Architect in New Zealand

To work as a registered architect in New Zealand, you’ll typically need to complete tertiary qualifications in architecture, followed by practical industry experience.

Professional registration ensures architects meet national standards of competence and ethical practice.

Education Requirements

Most architects complete:

Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture (or equivalent)
Followed by:

Master of Architecture (Professional)

This pathway generally involves five years of tertiary study at an accredited institution.

Registration Requirements

To become a Registered Architect in New Zealand, you must meet the standards of the:

New Zealand Registered Architects Board (NZRAB)

Typical requirements include:

• Completion of an accredited Master of Architecture (Professional)
• Documented practical work experience
• Demonstration of professional competence
• Assessment/interview process

Experience requirements focus on developing real-world capability across design, documentation, project coordination, and compliance.

Relevant Degree Pathways

Examples of degrees that can support entry into the field include:

• Bachelor of Architectural Studies
• Bachelor of Architecture
• Master of Architecture (Professional)
• Bachelor of Landscape Architecture
• Bachelor of Urban Planning / Urban Design
• Bachelor of Architectural Engineering

Vocational & Technical Pathways

For those interested in design-related or technical roles, vocational education can provide strong entry routes.

Examples include:

• New Zealand Certificate in Architectural Technology
• New Zealand Diploma in Architectural Technology
• CAD / Digital Design qualifications
• Landscape design programmes

These pathways can lead to careers such as:

✅ Architectural Technician
✅ CAD Technician
✅ Draughtsperson
✅ Landscape Designer

Apprenticeships & Workplace Learning

Some related careers may be entered through:

• Workplace training
• Cadetships
• Industry certifications

Work Experience & Entry-Level Roles

After leaving school, you may explore:

• Architectural studio support roles
• CAD/drafting assistant positions
• Construction or design administration roles

Many employers support further study and professional development.

Strong skills in:

• Maths
• Communication
• Design & creativity
• Problem-solving

are highly valuable.

Do Your Research

Requirements vary depending on:

• Career path
• Qualification level
• Employer
• Registration goals

Always check accreditation and NZRAB guidelines.

A Pathway for Every Goal

Whether your ambition is:

🎯 Registered Architect
🎯 Architectural Technician
🎯 Designer
🎯 Urban or Landscape Specialist

There are multiple study and training pathways available in New Zealand.

Best Places to Study

Where to Study Architecture

Where you choose to study will depend on your career goals, preferred learning environment, and location. For those aiming to become a registered architect in New Zealand, it’s important to select an accredited programme recognised by the New Zealand Registered Architects Board (NZRAB).

Accredited Architecture Pathways in New Zealand

The following universities offer qualifications aligned with the professional pathway toward registration:

University of Auckland
Offers the Bachelor of Architectural Studies followed by the Master of Architecture (Professional).

Auckland University of Technology (AUT)
Provides architecture and built environment programmes with strong industry relevance.

Victoria University of Wellington
Well known for architecture and design innovation.

University of Canterbury
Recognised for architecture and built environment studies.

Professional Qualification Pathway

The standard route typically includes:

• Bachelor’s degree in architecture (or equivalent)
• Master of Architecture (Professional)
• Practical industry experience
• NZRAB registration process

Always confirm that your chosen programme holds current accreditation status.

Things to Consider When Choosing Where to Study

✅ Accreditation & recognition
✅ Programme specialisation
✅ Studio & practical learning style
✅ Location & lifestyle
✅ Portfolio requirements
✅ Industry connections

Selecting the right institution is a key step toward building a successful career in architecture and design.

Where to Learn More

You can find out more about different design and architecture pathways through professional bodies and organisations advocating for careers in the sector.

Some good places to start include:

• Architects Accreditation Council of Australia
• Association of Consulting Architects
• Association of Architecture Schools of Australasia
• Government Architects Network of Australia

And many more!

Each state will also have several professional organisations that can help you learn more about the industry, network, and develop your career.